Hollowpoint is spelled as /ˈhɒləʊpɔɪnt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This term is commonly used to describe a bullet that has a hollowed-out tip designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel. The "hollow" sound at the beginning of the word is represented by the /h/ consonant followed by an open "o" sound represented by /ɒ/. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound /əʊ/ followed by a combination of two consonants, /p/ and /ɔɪ/, which create the "point" sound at the end of the word.
Hollowpoint:
Hollowpoint is a term commonly used to describe a specific type of ammunition primarily used in firearm applications. It refers to a bullet design that exhibits a hollowed out or concave cavity at the tip, usually found in the nose of the bullet.
The purpose of the hollowpoint design is to enhance the bullet's effectiveness upon impact. When the bullet strikes a target, the hollowpoint causes the bullet to expand or mushroom, increasing its diameter and creating a larger wound channel. This expansion, combined with the bullet's tendency to fragment or break apart upon impact, makes hollowpoint ammunition particularly effective for self-defense or law enforcement purposes, as it maximizes the transfer of energy to the target while minimizing the risk of over-penetration.
The characteristics of hollowpoint ammunition also make it a popular choice for hunting applications. The expansion and fragmentation that occurs upon impact with soft tissue or game animals helps to ensure quick and ethical kills, as it causes rapid incapacitation or vital organ damage.
It is important to note that in many jurisdictions, the use of hollowpoint ammunition may be restricted or prohibited for certain purposes, such as military engagements or law enforcement operations against armored targets. These restrictions are often implemented due to concerns related to the excessive damage caused by hollowpoint ammunition, especially when used in high power firearms.
The word "hollowpoint" refers to a type of bullet or ammunition that has a hollowed-out, or cavity, tip. The term is a compound word, combining "hollow" and "point".
The word "hollow" originated from the Old English word "holh", which means "a hollow or concave place". It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the German word "hohl" and the Dutch word "hol". Over time, "hollow" took on the meaning of something empty or having a void inside.
The word "point", derived from the Old French word "pointe", has its roots in the Latin word "puncta", meaning "a pricking instrument". It referred to the sharp tip of a knife, sword, or other objects used for piercing or puncturing.