minute gun

American  

[min-it] / ˈmɪn ɪt /

noun

1. a cannon fired at intervals of a minute, especially as a signal of distress or in a military funeral ceremony.

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minute gun British  

/ ˈmɪnɪt /

noun

1. a gun fired at one-minute intervals as a sign of distress or mourning

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Etymology

Origin of minute gun

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

Philip’s coffin was borne to the chapel on a bespoke Defender TD 130 in military green as a minute gun fired eight times.

From Reuters • Apr. 16, 2021

The minute gun at sea is known the world over as a signal of distress.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 470, January 3, 1885 by Various

Ere the last minute gun sounded all was over.

From The Portland Peerage Romance by Archard, Charles J.

It was a minute gun fired by the Americans in honour of the gallant dead.

From The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World: from Marathon to Waterloo by Creasy, Edward Shepherd, Sir

Ere the last minute gun sounded, all was over.

From Lord George Bentinck A Political Biography by Disraeli, Benjamin, Earl of Beaconsfield