powder-horn
A frontiersman carefully pours black powder from his powder-horn into his rifle's muzzle.
Noun: - Container for gunpowder: A "powder-horn" is a container, traditionally made from the hollowed-out horn of a cow or ox, used to hold gunpowder for firearms, especially in historical contexts (e.g., during the 17th–19th centuries). It often had a stopper or spout for dispensing powder.
- (A horn used to store gunpowder for his musket.)
- (A historical container for gunpowder, decorated as a folk art piece.)
"to fill the powder-horn": to prepare for battle or hunting by loading gunpowder into the horn.
- Before the hunt, he filled his powder-horn with fresh black powder. (He prepared his container for use.)
"powder-horn" as a symbol: In literature and history, the powder-horn often symbolizes readiness for conflict or the frontier lifestyle.
- The frontiersman’s powder-horn was as essential as his rifle. (It was a key tool for survival.)
Powder (n): a fine, dry substance, especially gunpowder.
- The black powder was stored carefully. (The explosive substance used in firearms.)
Horn (n): a hard, pointed growth on the head of animals like cows or goats; also, a material used to make containers.
- The horn of a cow was hollowed out to make the powder-horn. (The animal part used as raw material.)
- Gunpowder flask: a similar container for gunpowder, often made of metal or leather.
- Powder flask: a general term for any small container used to hold gunpowder.
"Keep your powder-horn dry": an old expression meaning to be prepared for action or to avoid getting into trouble (derived from the need to keep gunpowder dry to maintain its effectiveness).
- During the argument, he reminded himself to keep his powder-horn dry. (Stay calm and prepared.)
"A powder-horn’s worth of courage": a metaphorical phrase meaning a small but sufficient amount of bravery.
- He had only a powder-horn’s worth of courage, but it was enough to face the challenge. (Limited but adequate bravery.)