Synonyms for

Handgun

Verb / ˈhæˌndgʌn / Another word for handgun — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A handgun is a small firearm designed to be held in one hand.

Synonyms & similar words

pistol sidearm shootingiron pistol revolver sidearm firearm piece six-shooter automatic semi-automatic handpiece handgat heater iron peashooter popgun

Synonyms by register

Formal

firearm pistol sidearm weapon

Informal

gun piece heater gat

Literary

blunderbuss arquebus

Antonyms

shield peace disarmament nonviolence pacifism

Common collocations

  • concealed handgun
  • loaded handgun
  • handgun safety
  • illegal handgun
  • handgun control
  • handgun permit
  • handgun violence

Word family

noun handgun

Usage note

While 'pistol' is often used interchangeably, 'handgun' is a broader term that includes revolvers. 'Firearm' is a more general term for any gun.

Example sentences

  1. The police officer drew his handgun and aimed it at the suspect.
  2. She took a handgun safety course before purchasing her own gun.
  3. The cowboy pulled out his trusty handgun and fired at the bandits.
  4. The criminal threatened the store clerk with a handgun.
  5. The soldier carried a handgun as a backup weapon.

Quotes

  • I carry a handgun because I'm too young to die and too old to take a butt kickin'. - Jeff Cooper
  • I would like to see every woman know how to handle firearms as naturally as they know how to handle babies. - Annie Oakley
  • A gun is a tool, Marian; no better or no worse than any other tool: an axe, a shovel or anything. A gun is as good or as bad as the man using it. Remember that. - Shane

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