shooting-iron
Definition
Noun (informal, slang): A firearm, especially a handgun. The term "shooting-iron" is a colloquial and somewhat humorous or rustic way to refer to a gun, emphasizing its function as a tool for shooting.
Usage Examples
- (He took out his firearm and pointed it.)
- (The cowboy carried his gun in a leather holder.)
- (Do not bring that gun to the gathering; it is dangerous.)
Advanced Usage
"to clean one's shooting-iron": to maintain or polish a firearm.
- After the hunting trip, he spent an hour cleaning his shooting-iron. (He spent time maintaining his gun.)
"to draw one's shooting-iron": to pull out a firearm quickly, typically in a threatening manner.
- The outlaw drew his shooting-iron when the sheriff approached. (The criminal pulled out his gun as the law officer came near.)
Variants and Related Words
- Shooting (n): the act of firing a gun.
- The shooting at the range was loud. (The firing of guns at the practice area was noisy.)
- Iron (n): a metal; also, a slang term for a firearm.
- He carried a piece of iron for protection. (He carried a gun for self-defense.)
Synonyms
- Firearm: a portable gun.
- Handgun: a small gun designed to be held in one hand.
- Pistol: a type of handgun.
- Revolver: a handgun with a revolving cylinder.
Phrasal Verbs
- Shoot off: to fire a gun, often carelessly or as a signal.
- He shot off his shooting-iron to celebrate the victory. (He fired his gun to mark the win.)
Related Idioms
- "shoot from the hip": to act or speak impulsively, without careful thought.
- He tends to shoot from the hip when giving advice, just like using a shooting-iron without aiming. (He reacts quickly without planning.)
Note on Register
"Shooting-iron" is considered very informal and somewhat dated. It is often used in Western films, historical fiction, or humorous contexts. Avoid using it in formal or academic writing.