assault rifle

American  

noun

1. a military rifle capable of both automatic and semiautomatic fire, utilizing an intermediate-power cartridge.

2. a nonmilitary weapon modeled on the military assault rifle, usually modified to allow only semiautomatic fire.

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assault rifle British  

noun

1. a semiautomatic firearm with additional features such as a large magazine, a bayonet fitting, etc

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Etymology

Origin of assault rifle

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Deputies first noticed the Colt M4 assault rifle was missing from the trunk of their squad car on Saturday night sometime between 10:30 and 11, according to a statement issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 13, 2025

The Uvalde gunman used an assault rifle; Herrera is known as the AK Guy.

From Slate • May 28, 2024

Eyal Ben-Ari tugged at the heavy assault rifle hanging over his shoulder as he tiptoed out of his pink house at sunrise, hoping not to wake his wife or six children.

From New York Times • May 23, 2024

The weapon used by the suspect is believed to be an AR-15-style assault rifle, officials told a news conference in Falls Township.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2024

She wore a bush hat and filthy green fatigues; she carried the standard M-16 automatic assault rifle; her face was black with charcoal.

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien