3K

Pistol

UK //ˈpɪstl// US //ˈpɪstəl// Pronunciation

Definition

A firearm designed to be fired with one hand.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A small gun that you can hold with one hand.

Examples

• He pulled out a pistol during the robbery.
• She practiced target shooting with her new pistol.
• The police officer carried a pistol for protection.
• The movie featured a thrilling chase involving a pistol.
• He displayed his antique pistol at the gun show.
• The soldier was trained to use a pistol in close combat.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversations about firearms. May not be appropriate in formal or sensitive contexts.

Grammar pattern

countable noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'pistol' as a 'pestle' but for shooting.

Collocations

• fire a pistol
• conceal a pistol
• draw a pistol
• semi-automatic pistol
• service pistol

Synonyms

• handgun
• revolver
• sidearm
• gat
• piece

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'revolver' - a pistol is different from a revolver.
• Using 'pistols' when referring to multiple types of guns instead of only pistols.
• Mispronouncing it as 'pistal'.