Definition

Noun: A highly trained marksman who engages targets from concealed positions or long distances, typically using a specialized rifle with a telescopic sight. The term often implies military or law enforcement contexts, though it can describe any individual employing such tactics.

Usage

The word "sniper" is used to identify a person whose primary function is precise, long-range shooting. It is a specific occupational or tactical role. * The sniper remained hidden on the rooftop, observing the street below. * Police negotiators tried to communicate while the sniper had the suspect in his sights. * In modern warfare, a sniper team often consists of a shooter and a spotter.

Advanced Usage

• "Sniper fire": Gunfire originating from a sniper.
  • The advancing troops were pinned down by heavy sniper fire from the forest.
• "Sniper rifle": A high-precision, long-range rifle, typically fitted with a telescopic sight.
  • He carefully cleaned the barrel of his sniper rifle after the mission.

Variants and Related Words

• Snipe (verb): To shoot at someone from a concealed place. It can also mean to make a sly or petty critical attack.
  • The enemy soldiers would snipe at our patrols from the hills. (military)
  • Politicians often snipe at each other during debates. (figurative)
• Sniping (noun): The act or practice of being a sniper.
  • The constant sniping made it dangerous to move in the open.

Synonyms

• Marksman: A person skilled in precision shooting. (This is a broader term; a sniper is a specific type of marksman.)
• Sharpshooter: A person who is highly proficient in shooting, especially with a rifle. (Often used interchangeably with "marksman," but can imply less concealment than "sniper.")

Related Phrases

• Counter-sniper: Operations or tactics aimed at locating and neutralizing an enemy sniper.
  • The unit deployed counter-sniper teams to secure the perimeter.
• Sniper's nest: The concealed position from which a sniper operates.
  • The abandoned building provided the perfect sniper's nest.

Noun

1. a marksman who shoots at people from a concealed place