firearm

American  

[fahyuhr-ahrm] / ˈfaɪərˌɑrm /

noun

1. a small arms weapon, as a rifle or pistol, from which a projectile is fired by gunpowder.

---

firearm British  

/ ˈfaɪərˌɑːm /

noun

1. a weapon, esp a portable gun or pistol, from which a projectile can be discharged by an explosion caused by igniting gunpowder, etc

---

Other Word Forms

• firearmed
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of firearm

First recorded in 1640–50; fire + arm ²

Example Sentences

The Chinese require a formal diplomatic note, submitted well in advance, for every firearm and walkie-talkie the U.S. wishes to bring in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

He said security told him that the person may have had a firearm.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

We know what works: family court reform that centers safety over shared parenting presumptions; mandatory training on coercive control; limits on custody for abusive partners; strict, enforceable firearm removal; and sustained investment in survivor support.

From Slate • Apr. 25, 2026

State authorities at the scene seized a firearm, knife, and unused ammunition and evacuated tourists from the premises.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

Once, he dropped his backpack and a firearm catalogue spilled out, and there was also that photo at the shooting range.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Related Words

• handgun
• musket
• pistol
• revolver
• rifle
• shotgun
• weapon