gun
|gun|
/ɡʌn/
firearm
Etymology
'gun' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'gunne,' which referred to a cannon or firearm. The word may have come from the female given name 'Gunnhildr,' which was used as the name for early cannons.
'gun' changed from the Middle English word 'gunne' (meaning a cannon or firearm) and eventually became the modern English word 'gun.'
Initially, it meant 'a cannon or large firearm,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'any firearm or device that shoots projectiles.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a weapon that shoots bullets or other projectiles, typically using gunpowder or other explosive force.
The police officer drew his gun.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a device that shoots something under pressure, such as a nail gun or glue gun.
He used a nail gun to fix the boards.
Synonyms
Verb 2
to accelerate a vehicle suddenly and forcefully (informal).
He gunned the engine and sped away.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/26 15:04