firearm

noun

fire·​arm ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
usually used of small arms

Examples of firearm in a Sentence

revolvers, rifles, and other firearms will need a permit to carry a firearm
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The bill has come under scrutiny, as a similar type of firearm was used in a 2018 school shooting in Santa Fe, Texas. Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 May 2025 Scott, formerly of Hartford, was convicted of kidnapping resulting in Velez’s death and with causing the death of Velez through the use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 29 May 2025 Xavier Crump, 28, of Oakland, was charged with forcible oral copulation, second-degree robbery, criminal threats and being a felon in possession of a firearm, court records show. Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 28 May 2025 Both men have been charged with kidnapping, assault, unlawful imprisonment and criminal possession of a firearm. Aaron Katersky, ABC News, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for firearm

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firearm was in 1643

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Firearm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firearm. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

firearm

noun
fire·​arm ˈfī(ə)r-ˌärm How to pronounce firearm (audio)
: a weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
usually used only of small arms

More from Merriam-Webster on firearm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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