Definition

Noun: * National Rifle Association: A powerful organization in the United States that advocates for gun rights, specifically the right to own and bear arms as protected by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. It strongly opposes most forms of government regulation on firearms.

Usage

• The term NRA is almost always used as a proper noun, referring specifically to the organization. It is typically preceded by the definite article "the."
• It functions as a singular noun when referring to the organization as a single entity.

Examples

• The NRA held its annual convention in Houston.
• Many political candidates seek the endorsement of the NRA.
• The senator's vote was influenced by NRA lobbying.
• Debate over gun control often involves the NRA.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe things related to the organization.
  • He has a strong NRA membership.
  • The politician took an NRA-approved stance on the issue.

Variants and Related Words

• National Rifle Association: The full, formal name of the organization.
• Gun rights lobby: A descriptive term for organizations, including the NRA, that advocate for firearm ownership rights.
• Second Amendment group: A term highlighting the constitutional amendment central to the NRA's advocacy.

Synonyms

• Gun lobby (This is a broader term that can include the NRA and similar groups)

Notes on Meaning

• The term NRA carries significant cultural and political weight in the United States. It is a central figure in debates about gun control, individual rights, and political influence. Its mention often immediately frames a discussion within the context of American gun politics.

Noun

1. a powerful lobby that advocates the right to own and bear arms and rejects any gun regulation by the government