gunlock

American  

[guhn-lok] / ˈgʌnˌlɒk /

noun

1. the mechanism of a firearm by which the charge is exploded.

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gunlock British  

/ ˈɡʌnˌlɒk /

noun

1. the mechanism in some firearms that causes the charge to be exploded

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Etymology

Origin of gunlock

First recorded in 1645–55; gun ¹ + lock ¹

Example Sentences

Taylor had previously told police she believed the gun was in her purse, secured with a trigger lock, and that the gunlock key was under her bedroom mattress.

From BBC • Aug. 15, 2023

She said she kept the gunlock key under her bedroom mattress.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 14, 2023

The latter, with his gunlock in one hand and a greasy rag in the other, looked at the tempting morsel, opened his mouth, and the deed was done.

From Si Klegg, Book 3 (of 6) Si And Shorty Meet Mr. Rosenbaum, The Spy, Who Relates His Adventures by McElroy, John

Shorty's thumb played a little with his gunlock, but Si restrained him with a look.

From Si Klegg, Book 3 (of 6) Si And Shorty Meet Mr. Rosenbaum, The Spy, Who Relates His Adventures by McElroy, John

Since walnut does not warp or swell when wet it does not interfere with the action of the gunlock in gun stocks.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Report of the Proceedings at the 41st Annual Meeting Pleasant Valley, New York, August 28, 29 and 30, 1950 by Northern Nut Growers Association