ramrod

American  

[ram-rod] / ˈræmˌrɒd /

noun

1. a rod for ramming down the charge of a muzzleloading firearm.

2. a cleaning rod for the barrel of a firearm.

3. a strict disciplinarian; martinet.

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verb (used with object)

ramrodded, ramrodding

1. to exert discipline and authority on.

2. to strike or injure with or as if with a ramrod.

3. to accomplish or put into action by force, intimidation, etc..

   to ramrod a bill through Congress.

ramrod British  

/ ˈræmˌrɒd /

noun

1. a rod for cleaning the barrel of a rifle or other small firearms

2. a rod for ramming in the charge of a muzzle-loading firearm

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Etymology

Origin of ramrod

First recorded in 1750–60; ram ¹ + rod

Example Sentences

The soul of the movie is in watching these ramrod opposites bend and intertwine.

From Los Angeles Times

General Kitson was short and stocky, with a ramrod posture and a high, nasal voice.

From New York Times

The other side to that stubbornness: ramrod determination and an unsinking resilience.

From Los Angeles Times

There was another, more admirable side to that stubbornness and refusal to quit: A ramrod determination and unsinking resilience that girded Feinstein through a lifetime filled with maelstrom.

From Los Angeles Times

Not only that, the heavily tattooed figure in back remained ramrod straight with his arms at his sides, conveniently disguised in dark tinted glasses, a goatee and straw lifeguard hat.

From Los Angeles Times