The spelling of the word "automatic gun" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable in "automatic" is pronounced /ɔːtəˈmætɪk/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The second syllable in "gun" is pronounced /ɡʌn/, with a short "u" sound. When combined, the two words create the phrase /ɔːtəˈmætɪk ɡʌn/. This type of gun is also commonly referred to as an "automatic weapon," which would be pronounced /ɔːtəˈmætɪk ˈwɛpən/ in IPA phonetic transcription.
An automatic gun refers to a type of firearm designed to fire multiple rounds continuously by utilizing the energy from the fired cartridges themselves to reload and recock the weapon, without requiring manual intervention for each shot. Characterized by their ability to sustain automatic fire, these guns are also known as fully automatic firearms, machine guns, or simply automatics.
Operating on the principles of self-loading or blowback mechanisms, automatic guns automatically cycle through the firing process, expelling spent rounds while simultaneously loading and firing new ones. This rapid succession of rounds allows for a high rate of fire, often measured in rounds per minute (RPM). The priming and firing of the gun, as well as the chambering and ejection of cartridges, occur automatically while the trigger is held down until the ammunition is depleted or the operator releases the trigger.
Most automatic guns have selective fire capabilities, enabling the shooter to switch between automatic fire, where the gun continues firing as long as the trigger is held down, and semi-automatic fire, which fires one round per trigger pull. This select-fire feature gives operators the flexibility to adapt to various combat situations or shooting scenarios.
Automatic guns find applications in military operations, law enforcement, and recreational shooting. As regulated firearms, their possession and use often require strict compliance with legal frameworks and licensing procedures to ensure responsible and safe handling.
The term "automatic gun" has a fairly straightforward etymology.
- "Automatic" comes from the Greek word "automatos", meaning "self-moving" or "self-acting". It is derived from "autos" (self) and "matos" (thinking, moving). In English, the term emerged in the 17th century to describe something capable of operating or functioning without any external assistance. Over time, it has been commonly used to refer to any device that can perform a task with minimal or no human input.
- "Gun" derives from the older term "gonne", which was borrowed from Middle French "gonne" or "gonne à feu". These terms were used to describe early artillery weapons, particularly hand cannons.