air pistol

American  

noun

1. a pistol that utilizes compressed air rather than ignited gunpowder to propel a single shot, often a pellet.

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Etymology

Origin of air pistol

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

After arresting the owners, officers also searched their vehicle, where they found an air pistol - possession of which requires a licence and supervision for under 18s - a police scanner, and more cash.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

They said they caught him carrying a paintball mask — and the gun turned out to be the kind of air pistol you use for paintball.

From Washington Post • Jan. 5, 2023

Still, as she held the air pistol in her hand, lighter than she had imagined, it felt sleek, cool and somewhat stress-relieving.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2022

It started when he was 5 years old, shooting milk cartons with an air pistol in the Poconos in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

From New York Times • Feb. 13, 2022

They are now specifically known by the name of the purpose to which they are applied, as air ship, ventilator, air brake, fan blower, air pistol, air spring, etc.

From Inventions in the Century by Doolittle, William Henry