smoothbore

[ smooth-bawr, -bohr ]

adjective

1. (of firearms) having a bore that is smooth; not rifled.

noun

1. a smoothbore gun.

smoothbore

/ ˈsmuːðˌbɔː /

noun

1. modifier (of a firearm) having an unrifled bore

   a smoothbore musket

2. such a firearm

Derived Forms

• ˈsmoothˌbored, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of smoothbore¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; smooth + bore ²

Example Sentences

Each model uses the same gun, a 125mm smoothbore cannon, allowing shared ammunition between types.

From Popular-Science

Again the smoothbore roared and a handful of balls scoured another thicket.

From Project Gutenberg

Two thirds of us will have to manage, until we can do better, with the smoothbore and even with the old flintlock.

From Project Gutenberg

And it was partly because so many of the Indians were shooting smoothbore muskets that were not accurate at a long distance.

From Project Gutenberg

Being a staunch believer in the Police, Smoothbore had little faith in the Militia!

From Project Gutenberg

Almost within a minute after Smoothbore had left him he was wavering in his opinions; now he was striding in pursuit of him.

From Project Gutenberg