Definition

Noun: 1. A type of firearm: An assault rifle is a military firearm that is capable of selective fire (it can switch between semi-automatic and fully automatic or burst-fire modes). It is designed to use an intermediate-power cartridge and is fed from a detachable box magazine. * Core Concept: It is defined by its specific technical features (selective fire, intermediate cartridge) and military design purpose, not merely by its visual appearance.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The soldier was equipped with a standard-issue assault rifle.
  • Modern infantry units primarily use variants of the assault rifle.
  • The legislation sought to ban the sale of certain assault rifles to civilians.

Advanced Usage

• The term "assault rifle" has a specific technical definition in military and firearms contexts. In legal and media discourse, the related term "assault weapon" is often used, which is a broader legal classification that may include some semi-automatic-only firearms that resemble military assault rifles.

Variants and Related Words

• Assault weapon (n): A legal and political term, often used in legislation, that defines a category of semi-automatic firearms based on certain features (e.g., pistol grips, folding stocks). It is a distinct term from "assault rifle."
• Battle rifle (n): A military rifle that uses a full-power rifle cartridge, as opposed to the intermediate cartridge of an assault rifle.
• Carbine (n): A shorter, lighter version of a standard rifle or assault rifle.

Synonyms

• Automatic rifle: This term can be synonymous but is also a broader category that includes other types of automatic firearms.
• Selective-fire rifle: A more technical term emphasizing the key functional characteristic.

Related Phrases

• To be armed with an assault rifle: To carry or possess an assault rifle.
  • The insurgents were armed with assault rifles.

Noun

1. any of the automatic rifles or semiautomatic rifles with large magazines designed for military use