firearm

American  

[fahyuhr-ahrm] / ˈfaɪərˌɑrm /

noun

1. a small arms weapon, as a rifle or pistol, from which a projectile is fired by gunpowder.

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firearm British  

/ ˈfaɪərˌɑːm /

noun

1. a weapon, esp a portable gun or pistol, from which a projectile can be discharged by an explosion caused by igniting gunpowder, etc

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Other Word Forms

• firearmed adjective

Etymology

Origin of firearm

First recorded in 1640–50; fire + arm ²

Example Sentences

State authorities at the scene seized a firearm, knife, and unused ammunition and evacuated tourists from the premises.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

“It’s hard to argue that brandishing a firearm during a traffic misunderstanding is either allowed by federal law or necessary and proper for fulfilling ICE’s duties,” he said.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

In Canada gun ownership is regulated by laws that require would-be gun owners to obtain a licence by passing a safety course and rigorous background checks before they can purchase a firearm.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The former trainer claimed ICE has cut 240 hours of lessons from a 584-hour program, which he said meant dispensing with classes about firearm safety, lawful arrests, proper detention and the limits to officers’ authority.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 23, 2026

A careful and cautious man who picked his shots, never drank while carrying a firearm, and always stayed in shape, Kyril Montana thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors with or without a gun.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols

Related Words

• handgun
• musket
• pistol
• revolver
• rifle
• shotgun
• weapon