firing squad

American  

noun

1. a military detachment assigned to execute a condemned person by shooting.

2. a military detachment assigned to fire a salute at the burial of a person being honored.

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firing squad British  

noun

1. a small military detachment formed to implement a death sentence by shooting

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Etymology

Origin of firing squad

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Adding the firing squad in Arizona requires a constitutional amendment because the state’s constitution explicitly describes the sole methods of execution allowable for the state.

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2026

Arenales gallantly stepping up to support Espinal against a social firing squad sparked a flame between the two.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 15, 2025

A woman from the Philippines who spent almost 15 years on death row in Indonesia and was nearly executed by firing squad is on her way home.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2024

For her part, Ms. McDaniel has said Republican voters have grown tired of the “circular firing squad within the party” and said the RNC is a turnout organization that does not control candidate messaging.

From Washington Times • Nov. 15, 2023

Bailey stood alone at the front of the class, as if he was facing a firing squad.

From "The Chocolate War" by Robert Cormier