percussion cap

noun

1. a small metallic cap or cup containing fulminating powder, formerly exploded by percussion to fire the charge of small arms.

percussion cap

noun

1. a detonator consisting of a paper or thin metal cap containing material that explodes when struck and formerly used in certain firearms

Word History and Origins

Origin of percussion cap¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

Either the copper percussion cap might fail to spark, or the black powder in the barrel might fail to ignite because of dampness.

From Literature

One of the revolver’s chambers was empty, and officers found an expended percussion cap.

From Los Angeles Times

Look closely, and you'll see that the two guns don't quite match: One has had its flintlock striking mechanism replaced with a slightly more modern percussion cap system.

From Washington Post

Articles used in charging firearms and ordnance of all kinds; as powder, balls, shot, shells, percussion caps, rockets, etc.

From Project Gutenberg

By good luck I found a bit of tolerably dry paper in my jumper; and, becoming apprehensive that Petersen would waste our few percussion caps with his ineffectual snappings, I took the pistol myself.

From Project Gutenberg