assault rifle

noun

1. a military rifle capable of both automatic and semiautomatic fire, utilizing an intermediate-power cartridge.
2. a nonmilitary weapon modeled on the military assault rifle, usually modified to allow only semiautomatic fire.

assault rifle

noun

1. a semiautomatic firearm with additional features such as a large magazine, a bayonet fitting, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of assault rifle¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

In their midst stands a soldier with the Lebanese armed forces in a red beret, sporting an assault rifle and an unblinking stare.

From The Daily Beast

He used the powerful assault rifle issued to all guards on tower duty.

From The Daily Beast

Johnson is the first cop not wearing riot gear and carrying an assault rifle to walk down Florissant in the past few days.

From The Daily Beast

And returning a Glock pistol and assault rifle to a gentleman named Wayne Rogers, after he shot his “drinking buddy.”

From The Daily Beast

In America, a madman on a mission like his would no doubt have carried automatic pistols and probably an assault rifle.

From The Daily Beast