MACHINE GUN Meaning and
Definition
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A machine gun is a lethal firearm that possesses the ability to fire a substantial number of bullets in a rapid and continuous manner. Generally, it is a fully automatic, long-barreled weapon designed for sustained firing. The defining characteristic of a machine gun is its ability to shoot multiple rounds in quick succession through the utilization of a mechanical system.
Typically, machine guns are belt-fed or magazine-fed, with the potential to shoot hundreds or even thousands of rounds per minute. Unlike other firearms, such as semi-automatic rifles, machine guns continue to fire as long as the shooter holds the trigger down, enabling sustained fire without the need for individual trigger pulls. This aspect significantly enhances their destructive capability and places them within the category of powerful weapons of war.
Machine guns have historically been utilized by military forces to provide suppressing fire on the battlefield, delivering a high volume of rounds to control or eliminate enemy combatants or to protect military assets. However, due to their substantial firepower and potential for indiscriminate damage, machine guns are regulated and restricted in many jurisdictions. Their increased weight and size, as well as the reliable cooling mechanisms required for sustained fire, differentiate them from lighter personal firearms. The historical development of machine guns has seen the advent of various designs, including heavy machine guns for infantry use and mounted machine guns for vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels.
Common Misspellings for MACHINE GUN
- nachine gun
- kachine gun
- jachine gun
- mzchine gun
- mschine gun
- mwchine gun
- mqchine gun
- maxhine gun
- mavhine gun
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- macnine gun
- macjine gun
- macuine gun
- macyine gun
- machune gun
- machjne gun
Etymology of MACHINE GUN
The word "machine gun" originated in the late 19th century and early 20th century, primarily in English-speaking countries. The term combines the words "machine" and "gun", both of which have distinct origins.
1. Machine: The word "machine" comes from the Latin word "machina", which means a contrivance or device. It eventually entered the English language during the early 17th century, referring to any mechanical contraption or apparatus.
2. Gun: The word "gun" has a more complex history. It can be traced back to the Middle English word "gonne", derived from Old Norse "gunnr". However, the ultimate origin of the word is still uncertain. It may be related to older Germanic words meaning "battle" or "war".
The combination of the words "machine" and "gun" indicates a firearm that operates mechanically.
Similar spelling words for MACHINE GUN
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