First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1gun
noun \ˈgən\
: a weapon that shoots bullets or shells
: a tool or device that looks like a gun
Full Definition of GUN
1
a : a piece of ordnance usually with high muzzle velocity and comparatively flat trajectory b : a portable firearm (as a rifle or handgun) c : a device that throws a projectile
2
a : a discharge of a gun especially as a salute or signal b : a signal marking a beginning or ending
4
: something suggesting a gun in shape or function
See gun defined for English-language learners
See gun defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of GUN
Middle English gonne, gunne
2gun
verb
: to cause (a car or a car's engine) to go very fast by pressing the accelerator
: to throw (something) very hard
gunnedgun·ning
Full Definition of GUN
transitive verb
1
a : to fire on b : shoot <gunned down by a hit man>
2
a : to open up the throttle of so as to increase speed <gun the engine> b : fire 3b <gunned the ball to first base>
intransitive verb
: to hunt with a gun
— gun for
: to aim at or go after with determination or effort
See gun defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of GUN
1622
GUN[1] Defined for Kids
1gun
noun \ˈgən\
Definition of GUN for Kids
1
: a weapon that fires bullets or shells
2
: cannon
3
: something like a gun in shape or function <a glue gun>
4
: a discharge of a gun <The runners waited for the gun.>
2gun
verb
gunnedgun·ning
Definition of GUN for Kids
: to open the throttle of quickly so as to increase speed <gun the engine>
Learn More About GUN
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up gun? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).