popgun

American  

[pop-guhn] / ˈpɒpˌgʌn /

noun

1. a child's toy gun from which a pellet is shot by compressed air, producing a loud pop.

---

popgun British  

/ ˈpɒpˌɡʌn /

noun

1. a toy gun that fires a pellet or cork by means of compressed air and makes a popping sound

---

Etymology

Origin of popgun

First recorded in 1655–65; pop ¹ + gun ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

popgun

As of now, they are as threatening as a popgun.

From BBC ● Aug. 31, 2025

Of course, the Dolphins’ popgun offense did nothing with this gifted field position, and fumbled the ball right back to Buffalo.

From New York Times ● Oct. 31, 2021

And it’s finished off with a “BNAG” flag stuck, popgun style, into its barrel.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 28, 2017

The Chiefs’ popgun offense and stingy defense carried them to a 9-7 record last season, barely missing out on the playoffs on the final Sunday of the regular season.

From Washington Times ● Jul. 28, 2015

Well... a popgun would have done me just as well in the end.’

From "Johnny Tremain" by Esther Hoskins Forbes