First Known Use: circa 1570
Dictionary
pistol
noun pis·tol \ˈpis-təl\
: a small gun made to be aimed and fired with one hand
: a person who has a lot of energy and spirit
Full Definition of PISTOL
1
: a handgun whose chamber is integral with the barrel; broadly : handgun
2
: a notably sharp, spirited, or energetic person
— pistol transitive verb
See pistol defined for English-language learners
See pistol defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PISTOL
Middle French pistole, from German, from Middle High German pischulle, from Czech píšt'ala, literally, pipe, fife; akin to Czech pištět to squeak
PISTOL Defined for Kids
pistol
noun pis·tol \ˈpi-stəl\
Definition of PISTOL for Kids
: a small gun made to be aimed and fired with one hand
Learn More About PISTOL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: pistol carbinePrevious Word in the Dictionary: pistilloidAll Words Near: pistol
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up pistol? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).