pocket-pistol

pocket-pistol

A man keeps a small pocket-pistol of brandy in his coat.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A small firearm: "pocket-pistol" refers to a compact, easily concealable handgun designed to be carried in a pocket.
    • A humorous term for a flask: In informal or jocular use, "pocket-pistol" can also mean a small bottle of liquor carried in a pocket.
Usage Examples

  • Noun (firearm):

    • He kept a pocket-pistol in his jacket for self-defense. (A small, concealable handgun for protection.)
    • The detective found a pocket-pistol hidden in the suspect's coat. (A compact firearm discovered during a search.)

  • Noun (humorous flask):

    • He pulled out his pocket-pistol and took a quick sip of whiskey. (A small flask carried for discreet drinking.)
    • At the party, he offered me a drink from his pocket-pistol. (A humorous reference to a portable liquor container.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to have a pocket-pistol on hand": to carry a small firearm or flask for immediate use.

    • The traveler always had a pocket-pistol on hand in case of emergencies. (Either a weapon or a flask, depending on context.)

  • "pocket-pistol as a status symbol": in certain subcultures, a small, expensive firearm may be seen as a mark of sophistication.

    • Among collectors, a rare pocket-pistol is a prized possession. (A valuable, compact handgun.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Pocket-sized (adj): small enough to fit in a pocket.

    • The pocket-sized pistol was easy to conceal. (Very compact.)

  • Pistol (n): a handgun, typically fired with one hand.

    • He carried a standard pistol, not a pocket-pistol. (A larger handgun.)
Synonyms
  • Derringer: a type of small, short-barreled pistol, often associated with concealment.
  • Miniature pistol: a very small handgun.
  • Flask: a small bottle for carrying liquor (for the humorous sense).
Related Idioms

  • "Pocket pistol" as a metaphor: used to describe something small but powerful.

    • That new smartphone is a pocket-pistol of computing power. (A compact device with great capability.)

  • "To carry a pocket-pistol": to be prepared for trouble (in a literal or figurative sense).

    • He always carried a pocket-pistol, just in case. (He was ready for any threat.)
Phrasal Verbs

  • Pocket up: to place something into a pocket.

    • He pocketed up the pocket-pistol before leaving. (He put the small firearm into his pocket.)

  • Pistol-whip: to strike someone with a pistol (not directly related to "pocket-pistol" but uses the same root).

    • The attacker pistol-whipped the victim. (Beat with a handgun.)