ghost gun

[ gohst guhn ]

noun

1. a gun that does not have a serial number and cannot be easily traced, especially one assembled at home from parts purchased without a background check.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ghost gun¹

First recorded in 2010–15

Example Sentences

Listed in the eight counts against him, McDonald owned two gold-plated semi-automatic firearms, Glock and Micro Draco pistols, the latter of which was a “ghost gun” without a serial number.

From Los Angeles Times

These justices did not mask their irritation with the lower court judges who tried to save the ghost gun companies, along with their criminal clientele, by warping the law beyond all recognition.

From Slate

ATF’s rule devastated the ghost gun industry, which catered to customers with criminal records who would flunk a background check.

From Slate

Tuesday’s arguments revealed two things: Roberts and Barrett have zero sympathy for the ghost gun industry, and they are unmistakably sick of this never-ending case.

From Slate

Prelogar said no, because unlike the parts in a ghost gun kit, “those items have well-known other uses to become something other than an omelet.”

From Slate