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matchlock

[ mach-lok ]

noun

  1. an old form of gunlock in which the priming was ignited by a slow match.
  2. a hand gun, usually a musket, with such a lock.


matchlock

/ ˈmætʃˌlɒk /

noun

  1. an obsolete type of gunlock igniting the powder by means of a slow match
  2. a gun having such a lock
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of matchlock1

First recorded in 1630–40; match 1 + lock 1
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Example Sentences

Formerly they had to be carried separately, but the new arrangement was a great convenience and made the matchlock.

There are two women on ponies, one old one on foot, and three men armed with sword and matchlock.

I did n't want any one to tell me which he was, for I 'd know Matchlock at half a mile distance.

Some genius in the machine shop altered a matchlock musket to flintlock and showed the local gunsmiths how to do it.

As they left the camp, Mrs. Armine saw Hamza behind her tent, patrolling with a matchlock over his shoulder.

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