revolver

[ ri-vol-ver ]

noun

1. a handgun having a revolving revolving chambered cylinder for holding a number of cartridges, which may be discharged in succession without reloading.
2. a person or thing that revolves.

revolver

/ rɪˈvɒlvə /

noun

1. a pistol having a revolving multichambered cylinder that allows several shots to be discharged without reloading

Word History and Origins

Origin of revolver¹

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35; revolve + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Maybe he had shot a revolver in the air, he said.

From Los Angeles Times

He wore a camouflage print bucket hat, a black mask that covered his entire face, a yellow hooded sweatshirt, tan pants, gloves and was armed with a silver revolver, according to the Sheriff’s Department.

From Los Angeles Times

Various boxes, mobile phones, empty suitcases and a loaded black Turkish Ozkursan revolver were found as officers searched the warehouse.

From BBC

Baldwin was pointing the weapon at Hutchins while preparing for a scene when the revolver discharged.

From Los Angeles Times

Her single shot from a .38-caliber revolver missed Ford by several feet after Oliver Sipple, a disabled Vietnam War veteran, grabbed her arm and pulled her down.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ammunition
• bomb
• cannon
• firearm
• gun
• knife
• machete
• machine gun
• missile
• nerve gas
• pistol
• rifle
• shotgun
• sword
• tear gas