smoothbore

[ smooth-bawr, -bohr ]

adjective

1. (of firearms) having a bore that is smooth; not rifled.

noun

1. a smoothbore gun.

smoothbore

/ ˈsmuːðˌbɔː /

noun

1. modifier (of a firearm) having an unrifled bore

   a smoothbore musket

2. such a firearm

Derived Forms

• ˈsmoothˌbored, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of smoothbore¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; smooth + bore ²

Example Sentences

Rheinmetall AG, a German defense contractor that makes the 120mm smoothbore gun on the Leopard 2, says the tank has been deployed by “more nations than any other.”

From Seattle Times

Rheinmetall AG, a German defense contractor that makes the 120mm smoothbore gun on the Leopard 2, says the tank has been deployed by “more nations that any other.”

From Washington Times

The tank weighs more than 60 tons, has a 120mm smoothbore gun and can hit targets at a distance of up to five km.

From Reuters

Under Russia’s strict gun ownership laws, applicants for a firearm license must pass psychological exams and own a smoothbore shotgun for a trial period before obtaining a rifle.

From New York Times

Applicants for a firearm’s license must pass psychological exams and own a smoothbore shotgun for a trial period before obtaining a rifle.

From New York Times