blank cartridge

American  

noun

Ordnance.

1. a cartridge containing powder only, without a bullet.

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blank cartridge British  

noun

1. a cartridge containing powder but no bullet: used in battle practice or as a signal

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Etymology

Origin of blank cartridge

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

A blank cartridge was loaded into one rifle without anyone knowing which.

From Washington Times

Check while loading each blank cartridge into the gun.

From Fox News

What is a prop gun and how does a blank cartridge work?

From Los Angeles Times

Such was the cause of death of actor Brandon Lee on the set of the movie “The Crow” in 1993; the projectile tip of a dummy round was accidentally lodged in a gun chamber, and it was then propelled out of the gun by a blank cartridge.

From Los Angeles Times

But just what exactly is a “prop gun,” what is a blank cartridge and how can they be so deadly?

From Los Angeles Times