breechblock

or breech-block

[ breech-blok ]

noun

, Ordnance.

1. a movable piece of metal for closing the breech in certain firearms.

breechblock

/ ˈbriːtʃˌblɒk /

noun

1. a metal block in breech-loading firearms that is withdrawn to insert the cartridge and replaced to close the breech before firing

Word History and Origins

Origin of breechblock¹

First recorded in 1880–85; breech + block

Example Sentences

In the bore, pent in by the polished breechblock, is a cartridge which has failed in its duty.

From Project Gutenberg

Breechblock—a movable piece which closes the breech of a cannon.

From Project Gutenberg