DERINGER Meaning and
Definition
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Deringer, spelled as "derringer" in North America, refers to a small, short-barreled pistol that was typically designed to be used at a close range. This firearm was quite popular during the 19th century, especially in the United States, and it gained its name from its creator, Henry Deringer, an American gunsmith.
A derringer is characterized by its compactness and simplicity. It usually features a single or double barrel capable of holding only a small number of shots, often one or two. The overall design of a derringer is intended to be easily concealable, making it an attractive choice for personal defense or discreet carry. Originally, it fired black powder cartridges, but over time, various models have been developed to accommodate different ammunition types, such as rimfire or centerfire cartridges.
Derringers can be classified into two types based on the orientation of their barrels: the over-and-under and the side-by-side. The over-and-under design features two barrels stacked above each other, whereas the side-by-side configuration positions the two barrels horizontally. Deringers typically possess a break-open action, meaning that the gun can be opened at its hinge to be loaded or unloaded.
Today, although derringers are not as prevalent as they used to be, they still hold a significant place in the history of firearms. Their significance lies in being convenient and compact, which suited the needs of individuals seeking a discreet and portable means of self-defense.
Common Misspellings for DERINGER
- seringer
- xeringer
- ceringer
- feringer
- reringer
- eeringer
- dwringer
- dsringer
- ddringer
- drringer
- d4ringer
- d3ringer
- deeinger
- dedinger
- definger
- detinger
- de5inger
- de4inger
- derunger
- derjnger
Etymology of DERINGER
The word "derringer" refers to a type of small, pocket-sized handgun that is usually associated with the American Old West. The term itself is derived from the last name of a famous American gunsmith, Henry Deringer.
Henry Deringer (1786–1868) was a renowned firearm manufacturer from Pennsylvania, United States. He was known for producing small and easily concealable pistols, which eventually became popular and widely known as "Deringers" (spelled with one "r" at the time).
The specific spelling "derringer" with two "r"s is believed to have resulted from a naming error made by a famous American actor, John Wilkes Booth. Booth mistakenly shot President Abraham Lincoln using a .44 caliber Deringer pistol, which he misspelled as "derringer" when promoting his assassination weapon.
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