popgun

American  

[pop-guhn] / ˈpɒpˌgʌn /

noun

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

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popgun British  

/ ˈpɒpˌɡʌn /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of popgun

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

Example Sentences

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

From BBC

If this was France's backlash to what happened to them against Ireland in Marseille then it was more popgun than bazooka.

From BBC

“My advice to them would be: Avoid the popgun effect of a subpoena that can’t be enforced,” Mr. Brand said.

From New York Times

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

Compared to California, Florida’s economy is a popgun.

From Los Angeles Times