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

Sukram Ursa, 21, who surrendered in December, said he had swapped his assault rifle for a government-gifted mobile phone.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

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

Results of ballistics investigations carried out in Ukraine suggested it was impossible to accidentally fire the weapon, an assault rifle, Det Sgt Bullivant told the inquest.

From BBC • Dec. 13, 2024

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

From Slate • May 28, 2024

Now it means a man who carries an assault rifle and who walks in your shadow.

From "The Hot Zone" by Richard Preston