gunfire

[ guhn-fahyuhr ]

noun

1. the firing fire of a gun gin gun or guns. gun.
2. Military. the tactical use of firearms, especially artillery, as distinguished from other weapons, as bayonets, torpedoes, or grenades.

gunfire

/ ˈɡʌnˌfaɪə /

noun

1. the firing of one or more guns, esp when done repeatedly
2. the use of firearms, as contrasted with other military tactics

Word History and Origins

Origin of gunfire¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; gun ¹ + fire

Example Sentences

The gunfire continued as Ordaz collapsed and his relatives screamed out, according to the video.

From Los Angeles Times

Earlier this week, three planes that were either landing or taking off from the main airport in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, were struck by gunfire as gang violence ravages the Caribbean nation.

From BBC

During the call he played an audio of gunfire in the background, according to Florida prosecutors.

From Los Angeles Times

However, several US airlines suspended flights to the country this week after three planes were hit by gunfire approaching or departing the airport this week.

From BBC

Several airlines have suspended flights to Haiti after a passenger plane from the US was hit by gunfire as it tried to land in Port-au-Prince.

From BBC

Related Words

• artillery
• barrage
• blast
• bombardment
• burst
• detonation
• firing
• shooting
• thunder
• volley