firelock

American  

[fahyuhr-lok] / ˈfaɪərˌlɒk /

noun

1. a gun having a lock in which the priming is ignited by sparks struck from flint and steel, as the flintlock musket.

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firelock British  

/ ˈfaɪəˌlɒk /

noun

1. an obsolete type of gunlock with a priming mechanism ignited by sparks

2. a gun or musket having such a lock

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Etymology

Origin of firelock

First recorded in 1540–50; fire + lock ¹

Example Sentences

I am apprehensive about the use of the firelock, and pray I acquit myself well in the day of trial.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

"No; I caught his firelock; it exploded in my hand."

From Cardigan by Chambers, Robert W. (Robert William)

I gave the Weasel money to purchase powder and ball, which we all lacked, and to buy for me a silver watch and a rifle or firelock to replace the loss of my own.

From Cardigan by Chambers, Robert W. (Robert William)

Captain Stuart had placed in a loop-hole the muzzle of a firelock, which he sighted himself.

From The Story of Old Fort Loudon by Murfree, Mary Noailles

Then a voice called from a nearby hill: “Guard your boar, for understand, Per Gynt is without, With his firelock in his hand!”

From The Norwegian Fairy Book by Stroebe, Clara