gunshot

American  

[guhn-shot] / ˈgʌnˌʃɒt /

noun

1. the shooting of a gun.

   We heard three gunshots.

2. a bullet, projectile, or other shot fired from a gun.

3. the range of a gun.

   The bear was out of gunshot.

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adjective

1. made by a gunshot.

gunshot British  

/ ˈɡʌnˌʃɒt /

noun

1. 1. shot fired from a gun

   2. ( as modifier )

      gunshot wounds

2. the range of a gun

3. the shooting of a gun

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Etymology

Origin of gunshot

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English; gun ¹, shot ¹

Example Sentences

“We may not have gunshot wounds, but we have plenty of bungee-jumping accidents,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

The company’s catalog includes license plate readers, gunshot detectors and automated drones, with plans to expand into even more massive people-tracking software.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

But standing in their way is 71-year-old Sliwa, a Guardian Angel and subway vigilante who cemented his place in city lore after surviving five gunshot wounds in an alleged mob hit in 1992.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 7, 2025

The pop of the catcher’s mitt sounded like a gunshot.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2025

I could crack that rawhide popper louder than a gunshot.

From "Old Yeller" by Fred Gipson