gun

gun · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A weapon that discharges bullets or shells from a metal tube.

  2. 2.

    A device using pressure to propel something.

  3. 3.

    (informal, American) The accelerator of a vehicle.

  4. 4.

    To shoot with a gun.

  5. 5.

    To accelerate rapidly.

Forms

plural: guns

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    gun down — Kill or wound with a gun.
  • •
    gun for — Seek to harm or attack.
  • •
    jump the gun — Act too soon.
  • •
    stick to your guns — Maintain your position.
  • •
    under the gun — Under pressure.
  • •
    big guns — Important people.
  • •
    smoking gun — Conclusive evidence.

Related words

See also: pistol, rifle, shoot, weapon
Synonyms: firearm, pistol, rifle, weapon

Etymology

From Middle English gonne, possibly from the Scandinavian female name Gunnhildr, or from an onomatopoeic source.