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

Further details on the firearm were not yet available, Davis said Thursday morning.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

“Our officers receive extensive firearm training, are taught de-escalation tactics, and receive 4th and 5th Amendment comprehensive instruction,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 2026

Once, he dropped his backpack and a firearm catalogue spilled out, and there was also that photo at the shooting range.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Related Words

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