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

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)

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

"What party?" inquired Williams, who had presented his firelock to his breast.

From Harper's New Monthly Magazine No. XVI.?September, 1851?Vol. III. by Various

It was wainscoted with oak half-way up, and the walls were hung with yellow leather, patterned with black; but what most struck him was a firelock musket with its long spring dagger attached.

From The Works of Honor? de Balzac About Catherine de' Medici, Seraphita and Other Stories by Balzac, Honor? de