assault rifle

noun

Synonyms of assault riflenext
: any of various intermediate-range, magazine-fed military rifles (such as the AK-47) that can be set for automatic or semiautomatic fire
also : a rifle that resembles a military assault rifle but is designed to allow only semiautomatic fire

Examples of assault rifle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The general call to arms is also being reiterated on state television, with several channels broadcasting their hosts brandishing assault rifles. Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 18 May 2026 Moments before the gunshots, more than 10 marines in camouflage fatigues carrying assault rifles were seen arriving at the building, a detachment the military said had been requested by the Senate. Reuters, NBC news, 13 May 2026 Every time laws keep an assault rifle out of the hands of someone intent on killing as many people as possible, lives are saved. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 8 May 2026 Who needs an assault rifle with a 100-round cylinder? Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for assault rifle

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of assault rifle was in 1950

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Cite this Entry

“Assault rifle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assault%20rifle. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

assault rifle

noun
: any of various especially automatic rifles designed for military use

called also assault weapon

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