as in firearm
a portable weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder
the soldiers keep their small arms securely in their holsters when not on patrol
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Recent Examples of small arm
Also, the cuff size is a bit large and may not be ideal for small arms.
—
Loren Brutsch, Health, 19 Feb. 2025
Natalia returned to Kosovo that fall for another two months of training, and she is currently certified to dispose of mines, rockets, artillery and mortar shells, submunitions, grenades, and small arms.
—Michael Holtz, The New Yorker, 17 Jan. 2025
The benefits of such innovation are clear: first, the armor and size of the vehicle protect the driver against small arms fire.
—David L. Knoll, Foreign Affairs, 30 Sep. 2016
In addition to the HIMARS boost, the latest shipment includes unmanned aerial systems, counter-drone systems, high-speed anti-radiation missiles, armored and light tactical vehicles, as well as small arms munitions, training and services for Ukraine's Armed Forces.
—Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for small arm
Loren Brutsch, Health, 19 Feb. 2025
Natalia returned to Kosovo that fall for another two months of training, and she is currently certified to dispose of mines, rockets, artillery and mortar shells, submunitions, grenades, and small arms.
—Michael Holtz, The New Yorker, 17 Jan. 2025
The benefits of such innovation are clear: first, the armor and size of the vehicle protect the driver against small arms fire.
—David L. Knoll, Foreign Affairs, 30 Sep. 2016
In addition to the HIMARS boost, the latest shipment includes unmanned aerial systems, counter-drone systems, high-speed anti-radiation missiles, armored and light tactical vehicles, as well as small arms munitions, training and services for Ukraine's Armed Forces.
—Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for small arm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for small arm
Noun
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Johnson also spoke about the importance of properly securing firearms and using gun locks.—
Ilana Arougheti,
Kansas City Star,
22 Apr. 2025
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Many aspects of American life—for instance, the view held by many Americans that freedom and the right to bear firearms are inextricable—do not resonate outside the United States.—
RANA MITTER,
Foreign Affairs,
22 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Multiple instances of gun violence occur outside of New York City Public Schools, often involving students and school safety staff.—
Savanah Jackson,
New York Daily News,
27 Apr. 2025
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Another recording, from a nearby security camera apparently without sound, appeared to show Lauren chambering a round and raising the gun, followed by police bullets kicking up dirt near her feet a moment after.—
Libor Jany,
Los Angeles Times,
26 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Small arm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/small%20arm. Accessed 1 May. 2025.
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