Handgun

ˈhændˌɡʌn

Meaning & Definition

noun

A short firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand.

The officer drew his handgun when he spotted the suspect.

A type of firearm that is particularly easy to conceal, such as a revolver or pistol.

She decided to purchase a small handgun for personal protection.

A weapon that is often used in competitive shooting sports.

He practices regularly at the range to improve his skills with a handgun.

A firearm that is categorized separately from rifles and shotguns.

The law allows for the ownership of a handgun as long as it is registered.

A personal defense firearm that is usually semi-automatic.

Many people prefer a semi-automatic handgun for its ease of use in self-defense situations.

The term 'handgun' combines 'hand-' referring to the manual operation and '-gun' indicating a firearm.

having a handgun

Possessing a handgun, usually in a legal context.

draw a handgun

To quickly take out a handgun, often from a holster.

carry a handgun

To have a handgun on one's person, typically for self-defense.

pistol

A type of handgun that typically has a single barrel and is semi-automatic or revolver-based.

revolver

A type of handgun that has a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers.

piece

He pulled out his piece when he felt threatened.

gat

You better watch out, he's got a gat in his waistband.