automatic rifle

American  

noun

1. a type of light machine gun capable of firing automatically or in single shots.

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Etymology

Origin of automatic rifle

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Video footage released by Belarusian state media showed Lukashenko presenting Kim with what appeared to be an automatic rifle, prompting Kim to respond with a mock reloading gesture and say "thank you".

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

In fact, he had only held a weapon once, when they were taught how to strip down and reassemble an automatic rifle, she said.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 25, 2022

On the Boxrec.com website that is the closest thing boxing has to a record book, the home page on Monday featured a picture of Vitali Klitschko holding an automatic rifle above the ratings.

From Fox News • Feb. 28, 2022

On the back, we get a 3/4 view of the Punisher, in black leather trench coat and skull shirt, holding an automatic rifle and lit match.

From Washington Times • Feb. 10, 2022

I learned how to shoot an automatic rifle and a pistol and took target practice both in Kolfe with the Emperor’s Guard, and at a shooting range about fifty miles away with the entire battalion.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela