Quaker gun

noun

1. a dummy gun, as on a ship or fort: so called in allusion to the Quakers' opposition to war.

Quaker gun

noun

1. a dummy gun, as of wood

Word History and Origins

Origin of Quaker gun¹

An Americanism dating back to 1800–10

Word History and Origins

Origin of Quaker gun¹

alluding to the Quakers' traditional pacifism

Example Sentences

They had called her father’s invention a joke, a Quaker gun, Una and her mother.

From Project Gutenberg

They approached very cautiously, and found that they had been awed by a few Quaker guns—logs of wood in position, and so painted as to resemble cannon.

From Project Gutenberg

They were a goodly sight to see,—the bright, healthy boys, straight as the "Quaker guns" they carried, and marching off with a firm and manly tread.

From Project Gutenberg

Howbeit, like Quaker guns, these made a brave show if not too closely scrutinized, and spared us the semblance of poverty in vacant spaces.

From Project Gutenberg

A few Quaker guns--logs mounted on wagon-wheels--were the only trophies.

From Project Gutenberg