handgun

noun

hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
Synonyms of handgunnext
: a firearm (such as a revolver or pistol) designed to be held and fired with one hand

Examples of handgun in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Investigators reportedly discovered a handgun, the victim's cellphone and money in the area where the shooting happened. Christa Swanson, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026 Upon arrival, officers determined that one of the suspects brandished an AK-47 style rifle, while the second suspect brandished a handgun. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 4 Apr. 2026 Investigators recovered a Ruger handgun from the car, and the money was later recovered, according to the complaint. Eva Remijan-Toba, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026 Authorities said the suspect was transported to the Central Booking Intake Facility and charged with first- and second-degree murder, assault and handgun violations. Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handgun

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handgun was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Handgun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handgun. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

handgun

noun
hand·​gun ˈhan(d)-ˌgən How to pronounce handgun (audio)
: a firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand

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