line of fire

American  

noun

1. the straight horizontal line from the muzzle of a weapon in the direction of the axis of the bore, just prior to firing.

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line of fire British  

noun

1. the flight path of a missile discharged or to be discharged from a firearm

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Etymology

Origin of line of fire

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

line of fire

They later told their neighbors privately, through diplomatic channels, that they would be in the first line of fire if fighting resumed, Arab officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 7, 2026

Likewise alternative asset managers were also in the line of fire to start the week, given concerns about their potential exposure to software companies through private-credit funds.

From Barron's ● Feb. 24, 2026

He meant well, he was right there in the line of fire, but he did not make a great impression.

From BBC ● Nov. 5, 2025

“After this incident, I could see why people should stay home, to stay out of the line of fire and move smart.”

From Salon ● Nov. 4, 2025

He’d be deserting in the line of fire.

From "Bridge to Terabithia" by Katherine Paterson