distress-gun

A ship fires a distress-gun to signal for help.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A signal gun fired to indicate an emergency: A "distress-gun" is a firearm or similar device used primarily in maritime contexts to fire a shot as a warning signal when a vessel is in grave danger and requires immediate assistance.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The captain ordered the crew to fire the distress-gun when the ship began to sink. (A signal gun was used to alert nearby vessels of the emergency.)
  • The sound of the distress-gun echoed across the bay, prompting a rescue mission. (The gunshot served as a call for help.)

Advanced Usage

• "to fire a distress-gun": to discharge the weapon as a distress signal.

  • The sailors fired a distress-gun after their engine failed. (They used the gun to signal their need for rescue.)

• "the distress-gun was heard": to indicate that the signal was perceived by others.

  • The distress-gun was heard by the coast guard, who responded quickly. (The sound alerted authorities to the emergency.)

Variants and Related Words

• Distress (n): extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain; or a state of danger or urgent need.

  • The crew was in great distress after the storm damaged the ship. (They were in a situation of severe trouble.)

• Gun (n): a weapon that shoots bullets or shells.

  • The distress-gun is a type of gun specifically used for signaling. (It is not for combat but for communication.)

Synonyms

• Signal gun: a gun used to send visual or audible signals.
• Alarm gun: a gun fired to warn of danger.

Phrasal Verbs

• Fire off: to discharge a weapon or send a signal quickly.
  • They fired off the distress-gun as soon as they spotted the iceberg. (They discharged the gun immediately.)

Related Idioms

• Shoot off a signal: to send a warning or request for help by firing a weapon.
  • The stranded hikers shot off a signal flare, similar to firing a distress-gun. (They used a device to call for aid.)