firearm

Definition

A personal weapon that uses explosive powder to propel a projectile often made of lead.

Etymology

From fire (“projectile discharge”) + arm (“weapon”).

Example Sentences

• "David was arrested for illegal possession of firearms."
• "Understanding gun ownership in the US can help inform debates about firearm laws (or lack thereof). […] There are about 393 million privately owned firearms in the US, according to an estimate by the Switzerland-based Small Arms Survey – or in other words, 120 guns for every 100 Americans."