GUN Meaning and
Definition
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A gun is a portable firearm device designed for discharging projectiles, primarily by the energetic release of compressed air or the combustion of propellant gases. It typically consists of a barrel, a mechanism to fire projectiles such as bullets or pellets, and a means of applying control or aiming. Guns are categorized based on their design, purpose, and mode of operation.
There are various types of guns, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and machine guns, each having distinct characteristics. Handguns are compact firearms designed to be held and operated with one hand, often used for self-defense or concealed carry. Rifles are long-barreled firearms, primarily used for accurate shooting over long distances. Shotguns are smoothbore firearms designed to shoot shells containing multiple projectiles, mostly used for hunting or sport shooting. Machine guns, on the other hand, are rapid-fire automatic guns used extensively by military forces.
Guns have been used by humans for centuries, evolving from early handheld variations to sophisticated modern designs. They have played significant roles in warfare, hunting, law enforcement, and sport shooting. However, their misuse has also been a cause for concern, leading to issues such as accidents, violence, and crime. As a result, the possession, sale, and use of guns are heavily regulated in many countries, with different laws and restrictions depending on the jurisdiction.
In summary, a gun is a portable firearm with different models, used for discharging projectiles by various mechanisms. They have diverse applications but also raise debates about safety, legality, and social impact.
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Any firearm, except a pistol and revolver; a fowling-piece; an instr. for throwing shot by means of gunpowder, as a musket, a rifle, a cannon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for GUN *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for GUN
Etymology of GUN
The word "gun" has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the Middle English word "gonne", which can be traced back to the Old Norse word "gunnr". "Gunnr" originally referred to a "battle" or "war", and later became associated with a specific type of projectile-based weapon. This term was later adopted into Middle English as "gonne" to refer to various types of firearms. Over time, the spelling evolved into "gun" as we know it today.
Idioms with the word GUN
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jump the gun
The idiom "jump the gun" means to start or take action too soon, often prematurely, before all the necessary information or preparations have been made. It implies acting hastily without considering the potential consequences or without having all the facts.
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under the gun
The idiom "under the gun" typically refers to being under pressure or facing a deadline. It is usually used to describe a situation in which one is feeling stressed, rushed, or compelled to act quickly to complete a task or make a decision.
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gun it
The idiom "gun it" is commonly used to mean to drive a vehicle at full speed or with maximum acceleration. It can also be used figuratively to describe someone taking action or making an effort with great intensity or immediacy.
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gun-shy
The idiom "gun-shy" typically refers to someone who is cautious, hesitant, or reluctant due to previous negative experiences or a fear of failure. It can also be used to describe someone who has lost confidence or developed a fear of taking risks.
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in the gun
The idiom "in the gun" typically means being in a difficult or disadvantageous situation, facing criticism, scrutiny, or being targeted for blame or negative consequences. It suggests being in a position where one is under pressure or being closely observed, similar to being in the line of fire.
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top gun
The idiom "top gun" refers to someone who is exceptionally skilled, accomplished, or successful in a particular field or domain. It originated from the 1986 action film "Top Gun" which portrays the elite fighter pilots of the United States Navy. In the movie, "top gun" refers to the best pilot in their training school. Thus, the idiom has come to represent the highest level of competence and proficiency in any given area.
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zip gun
The definition of the idiom "zip gun" refers to a homemade or improvised firearm, typically made using makeshift materials or household items. It is usually a rudimentary and unreliable weapon created as a substitute for a real firearm, often used in illegal or secretive activities.
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a son of a gun
The idiom "a son of a gun" is a colloquial expression used to refer to someone who is mischievous, playful, or generally difficult to control. It is typically used in a lighthearted or affectionate manner. It can also be used to describe someone who is bold, clever, or skilled in a particular area.
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a/the son of a gun
The idiom "a/the son of a gun" is used to describe someone, often in a playful or affectionate manner, who is mischievous, audacious, or difficult to handle. It can also be used to refer to someone who is considered impressive, skilled, or remarkable. The term is often used with a positive connotation, although it can also be used negatively in some contexts.
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hold/put a gun to sb's head
The idiom "hold/put a gun to someone's head" typically means to pressure or force someone to do something against their will, often using threats or intimidation. It symbolizes a situation where someone feels coerced or trapped, as if their life or well-being is at stake. However, it is important to note that this is an idiomatic expression and not to be interpreted literally.
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smoking gun
The idiom "smoking gun" refers to a piece of evidence or proof that conclusively reveals an individual's guilt or involvement in wrongdoing. It denotes an irrefutable piece of information or clue that exposes someone's culpability, typically in a legal or investigative context. As the term suggests, it refers to a gun that has just been fired, with the smoke serving as a tangible sign of the act being committed.
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Quaker gun
The idiom "Quaker gun" refers to a deceptive or fake weapon or object, typically used to mislead an opponent into thinking it is a genuine threat. It originates from the American Revolutionary War, when the Quakers, a religious group known for their pacifist beliefs, would construct fake cannons by painting logs to resemble real artillery. These fake guns were used as a deterrent, to make it appear as though they were armed and capable of defending themselves, despite their refusal to engage in violence. In modern times, "Quaker gun" is generally used figuratively to describe any object or strategy that is meant to deceive or intimidate.
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hold a gun to (one's) head
The idiom "hold a gun to (one's) head" refers to a situation where someone is forcing or pressuring someone else to do something by threatening them with severe consequences or harm. It conveys the idea of coercion or ultimatum, where the person being coerced feels compelled to comply due to fear or extreme pressure.
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hold/put a gun to somebody's head
The idiom "hold/put a gun to somebody's head" means to exert extreme pressure or force on someone in order to coerce or intimidate them into doing something or making a certain decision. It signifies a situation where a person is being compelled to comply due to the threat of harm or consequences.
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Gatling gun
The idiom "Gatling gun" refers to something that is extremely rapid or powerful, often used metaphorically to describe a fast and continuous output or a relentless barrage of information, actions, or criticism. It alludes to the high-speed and multiple-barrel design of the Gatling gun, a historical rapid-fire weapon.
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big fish/gun/noise/shot
The idiom "big fish/gun/noise/shot" refers to a person or situation that is of great importance, influence, or significance. It typically denotes someone or something that holds a prominent position or exerts a strong impact within a particular context. It often implies that the person or thing in question commands attention, respect, or fear from others.
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pull a gun
The idiom "pull a gun" refers to the action of drawing or removing a gun from its holster or hiding place, typically in a confrontational or threatening manner. It symbolizes the act of escalating a situation to a more dangerous or violent level, often used in colloquial speech to describe provocative or aggressive behavior involving the use of firearms.
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gun down
The idiom "gun down" means to shoot and kill someone using a firearm, typically in a violent or intentional manner. It suggests a deliberate act of violence resulting in the death of the person being targeted.
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gun someone (or an animal) down
The idiom "gun someone (or an animal) down" means to shoot someone or something with a gun in a deliberate and often violent manner, resulting in causing severe injury or death.
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have a gun to (one's) head
The idiom "have a gun to (one's) head" means to be in an extreme or desperate situation where one feels intense pressure or is faced with a difficult choice, often with severe consequences or risks involved. It implies being forced to make a decision or take an action under duress or extreme circumstances.
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a big gun
The idiom "a big gun" refers to someone who is highly influential, powerful, or skilled in a particular field. It is often used to describe individuals who have significant authority, expertise, or importance.
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hold a gun to head
The idiom "hold a gun to one's head" refers to an extreme or desperate situation where someone feels compelled or forced to take action due to the urgency or severity of the circumstances. It implies that a person is under intense pressure and has no other choice but to comply or react immediately, as if their life is at stake.
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gun for
The idiom "gun for" means to pursue or target someone or something aggressively, often with the intention to defeat, outdo, or intimidate them. It implies a competitive or confrontational attitude towards the target.
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big gun
The idiom "big gun" refers to a person of great influence, power, or importance within a particular field or organization. It suggests someone who wields considerable authority or expertise, often capable of making significant impact or getting things done.
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gun down sb
The idiom "gun down sb" means to intentionally shoot and kill someone using a firearm.
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hold a gun to sb's head
The idiom "hold a gun to someone's head" means to put immense pressure or force on someone to make them do something against their will. It symbolizes using a threat or extreme coercion to compel someone to comply with your demands. However, it is used figuratively rather than indicating a literal act of holding a gun to someone's head.
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a big gun/noise
The idiom "a big gun/noise" is typically used to describe a person or thing that holds significant power, influence, or importance. It refers to someone who is highly skilled or experienced in a particular field or a piece of equipment or machinery that is powerful or impressive.
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packing a gun
The idiom "packing a gun" typically refers to someone carrying a firearm or being armed with a gun.
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gun sm (or an animal) down
The idiom "gun someone (or an animal) down" is an expression that means to shoot or kill someone or an animal with a firearm. It can be used figuratively to describe causing harm or ending something abruptly and decisively.
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hold (or put) a gun (or a pistol) to someone's head
The idiom "hold (or put) a gun (or a pistol) to someone's head" generally means to exert extreme pressure or force on someone to make them do something against their will or better judgment. It implies a situation where someone has no choice but to comply due to the immediate threat of harm or severe consequences.
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hired gun
The idiom "hired gun" typically refers to a person who is hired or employed to do a specific job, often one that involves using their skills or expertise to achieve a certain goal. This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who is brought in to solve a problem or accomplish a task, often in a forceful or aggressive manner. It can also imply that the individual has little emotional attachment or loyalty to the cause, as they are primarily motivated by financial gain.
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(as) sure as a gun
The idiom "(as) sure as a gun" means to be completely certain or guaranteed, often used when expressing confidence or conviction in a statement or outcome. It refers to the certainty and reliability associated with guns, as they typically hit their target with great accuracy. Thus, the phrase implies that something is absolutely true or will certainly occur.
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Give it the gun.
The idiom "Give it the gun" refers to applying full effort, force, or speed to a particular action or task. It is often used to encourage someone to put in maximum effort or to go all out in a given situation.
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have a gun to your head
The idiom "have a gun to your head" means to be in an extremely risky or dangerous situation where one's actions or decisions are compelled by the imminent threat of harm or severe consequences. It is often used figuratively to describe being under intense pressure or having no alternative but to comply with certain demands.
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a/the smoking gun
The idiom "a/the smoking gun" is used to refer to evidence or proof that conclusively reveals or confirms someone's guilt or wrongdoing in a particular situation. It implies evidence that is so compelling and incriminating that it cannot be denied or ignored.
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hold a gun to someone's head
The idiom "hold a gun to someone's head" refers to a metaphorical situation where someone exerts extreme pressure, coercion, or threatens someone else in order to force them to comply with their demands or wishes. It implies a sense of urgency, significance, and potential harm if the person being coerced does not comply.
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gun for someone
To "gun for someone" means to seek or pursue someone with the intention of defeating, outperforming, or harming them, usually in a competitive or confrontational context. It implies a strong determination or desire to aggressively surpass or undermine the other person.
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son of a gun
The idiom "son of a gun" is typically used to express surprise, mild annoyance, or admiration. It is often used to refer to a person, especially a man, who is considered clever, impressive, or audacious.
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gun for sm
To "gun for someone" is an idiom meaning to actively seek or pursue someone, often with the intention of competing against or surpassing them. It implies a strong ambition or desire to defeat or outperform the person being targeted.
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put a gun to (someone's) head
The idiom "put a gun to (someone's) head" refers figuratively to exerting extreme pressure or coercion on someone to make them do something against their will. It conveys the idea of forcing someone into an action or decision by creating a threatening or dangerous situation. It emphasizes a sense of urgency and desperation, as if the situation is so dire that one feels compelled to comply.
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be under the gun
The idiom "be under the gun" means to be under pressure or in a situation where there is a deadline, time constraint, or intense scrutiny. It often implies being in a stressful or critical situation where one must perform or make decisions quickly.
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pull a gun (on sm)
The idiom "pull a gun (on someone)" typically means to draw or present a firearm in a threatening manner, usually as an act of aggression or to intimidate someone.
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a smoking gun
The idiom "a smoking gun" refers to undeniable evidence or proof that proves someone's guilt or wrongdoing beyond any doubt. It originated from the literal concept of a gun that has just been fired, as the barrel would still emit smoke and thus indicate that it had been recently used. Similarly, in a figurative sense, a "smoking gun" is evidence that is so clear and conclusive that it leaves no room for doubt or denial.
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pull a gun, knife, etc. on sb
The idiom "pull a gun, knife, etc. on somebody" refers to the action of drawing out and displaying a weapon, such as a gun or a knife, with an intent to threaten or harm someone. It indicates a sudden act of aggression or intimidation towards another person using a dangerous weapon.
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big wheel, at big fish/gun/noise/shot
The idiom "big wheel, at big fish/gun/noise/shot" refers to someone who is an influential or important person in a specific context or field. It implies that the person holds a position of power or authority and is highly respected or recognized in their area of expertise. The idiom suggests that the person tends to dominate or excel in their domain, often standing out among others.
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the smoking gun
The idiom "the smoking gun" refers to an unequivocal and damning piece of evidence that conclusively proves or reveals wrongdoing, guilt, or the truth behind a particular event or situation. It originates from the idea that a gun that has just been fired (smoking) is clear proof that it was used in a crime.
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beat the gun
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eat (one's) gun
The idiom "eat (one's) gun" is a slang term that refers to committing suicide by shooting oneself with a gun. It is a dark and serious phrase that is often used to describe extreme despair or hopelessness.
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glass gun
A figurative expression used to describe something that appears dangerous or threatening but is actually harmless or ineffective.
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eat one’s gun
The idiom "eat one's gun" refers to committing suicide by shooting oneself with a firearm.
Similar spelling words for GUN
- gunia,
- run,
- gnu,
- nun,
- gum,
- Gunn,
- fun,
- gin,
- gummy,
- bun,
- Guinn,
- guynn,
- GUMM,
- sun,
- guion,
- gunnoe,
- un-,
- guano,
- guiana,
- GUIN,
- un,
- guiney,
- gut,
- guyana,
- gumma,
- guama,
- guinea,
- pun,
- guy,
- guam,
- sun.,
- gunny,
- guan.
Conjugate verb Gun
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have gunned
you
would have gunned
he/she/it
would have gunned
we
would have gunned
they
would have gunned
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been gunning
you
would have been gunning
he/she/it
would have been gunning
we
would have been gunning
they
would have been gunning
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would gun
you
would gun
he/she/it
would gun
we
would gun
they
would gun
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be gunning
you
would be gunning
he/she/it
would be gunning
we
would be gunning
they
would be gunning
FUTURE
I
will gun
you
will gun
he/she/it
will gun
we
will gun
they
will gun
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be gunning
you
will be gunning
he/she/it
will be gunning
we
will be gunning
they
will be gunning
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have gunned
you
will have gunned
he/she/it
will have gunned
we
will have gunned
they
will have gunned
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been gunning
you
will have been gunning
he/she/it
will have been gunning
we
will have been gunning
they
will have been gunning
IMPERATIVE
we
Let´s gun
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was gunning
you
were gunning
he/she/it
was gunning
we
were gunning
they
were gunning
PAST PARTICIPLE
gunned
PAST PERFECT
I
had gunned
you
had gunned
he/she/it
had gunned
we
had gunned
they
had gunned
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been gunning
you
had been gunning
he/she/it
had been gunning
we
had been gunning
they
had been gunning
PRESENT
I
gun
you
gun
he/she/it
guns
we
gun
they
gun
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am gunning
you
are gunning
he/she/it
is gunning
we
are gunning
they
are gunning
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
gunning
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have gunned
you
have gunned
he/she/it
has gunned
we
have gunned
they
have gunned
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been gunning
you
have been gunning
he/she/it
has been gunning
we
have been gunning
they
have been gunning
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
gun
SIMPLE PAST
I
gunned
you
gunned
he/she/it
gunned
we
gunned
they
gunned
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