six-shooter

[ siks-shoo-ter, -shoo- ]

noun

1. a revolver from which six shots can be fired without reloading.

six-shooter

noun

1. informal.
   a revolver with six chambers Also calledsix-gun

Word History and Origins

Origin of six-shooter¹

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

Perhaps he preferred a stylish single-shot to blazing away with a six-shooter.

From Literature

Smith & Wesson made its name with handguns, such as Dirty Harry’s “Feeling Lucky?” six-shooter.

From Washington Post

Fortunately, the heroes’ weapons — like a flamethrower and an electrified gauntlet — are more powerful than your standard six-shooter.

From Seattle Times

Her John Wayne gallops stiff-backed on an elongated red carousel pony, a silver six-shooter held high.

From New York Times

Legends of pistol-packing preachers who trekked through the West with, as one of them said, “Bible in pocket, gun in hand” permanently joined evangelism to the six-shooter in some corners of the American imagination.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• firearm
• gun
• handgun
• rod