Synonyms for

Pistol

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

Definition

a small firearm designed to be held in one hand

Synonyms & similar words

handgun sidearm shootingiron gun firearm revolver handgun shooter weapon piece heater rod iron gat six-shooter sidearm blaster cannon rifle shotgun pump-action automatic semi-automatic

Synonyms by register

Formal

handgun firearm sidearm

Informal

heater piece gun gat

Literary

blunderbuss arquebus

Antonyms

shield peace dove pacifist nonaggression

Common collocations

  • draw a pistol
  • fire a pistol
  • holster a pistol
  • concealed pistol
  • loaded pistol
  • service pistol
  • antique pistol

Word family

noun pistol

Usage note

While 'pistol' specifically refers to a handgun, it is often used informally as a general term for any firearm, though 'gun' is more common in that context.

Example sentences

  1. The cowboy pulled out his pistol to defend himself.
  2. Police officers carry a pistol for their safety.
  3. The soldier used his pistol to shoot the enemy.
  4. The detective found a pistol at the crime scene.
  5. The robber threatened the bank teller with a pistol.

Quotes

  • The pen is mightier than the pistol.
  • A pistol is not an argument.
  • I carry a pistol because a cop is too heavy.

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