minute gun
Noun: 1. A ceremonial cannon or gun fired at one-minute intervals: A "minute gun" is a gun, typically a cannon, fired at regular intervals of one minute. This practice is most commonly associated with military or state funerals as a mark of respect and mourning. It can also be used as a maritime distress signal.
The term "minute gun" specifically describes the gun itself and the ceremonial practice of its use. It is a compound noun where "minute" refers to the time interval. * The minute gun boomed solemnly across the harbor during the admiral's funeral. * Sailors heard the distant sound of a minute gun, signaling a ship in distress.
- The firing of the minute gun is a traditional honor for a deceased head of state.
- In the fog, the repeated blast from the minute gun was the only clue to the vessel's predicament.
- To fire a minute gun: This is the standard verb phrase used with this noun.
- The artillery unit was ordered to fire a minute gun as the procession passed.
- Salute gun / Saluting battery: A gun used for ceremonial salutes, which may include minute-gun salutes.
- Funeral salute: The broader ceremonial act of which a minute-gun salute is a specific type.
- Funeral gun (context-specific)
- Signal gun (context-specific, for maritime use)
The meaning of "minute gun" is highly specific to its ceremonial or signaling function. The "minute" always refers to the 60-second interval, not to something small or detailed. It is not used in general contexts to describe any rapidly firing weapon.
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(military) gun that is discharged once every minute (usually as part of a military funeral)
