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.

---

line of fire British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of line of fire

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

line of fire

But balancing the preservation of a booming industry with protectionist rhetoric puts the sector "very easily in the line of fire," he warned.

From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026

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

“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

They needed work, even if they were putting themselves in the line of fire.

From Slate ● Oct. 27, 2025

The best thing to do was to tuck down, strap up, and keep well out of the line of fire.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson