spring gun
/'spriɳ'gʌn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A trap gun: A "spring gun" is a type of firearm that is set as a trap. It is designed to fire automatically when an intruder or animal touches a tripwire or trigger mechanism connected to it.
- A concealed or set gun: It refers to a gun that is fixed in place and hidden, intended to discharge when its triggering device is disturbed.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The old estate was protected by a dangerous spring gun. (The trap was designed to fire if anyone entered the property unlawfully.)
- Setting a spring gun is illegal in many jurisdictions due to the danger it poses. (Using such an automatic trap is prohibited by law.)
Advanced Usage
- Historical/legal context: The term is often used in discussions about property defense, historical security measures, and legal prohibitions.
- The use of a spring gun as a booby trap is considered a serious offense.
- As a deterrent: While intended for security, its use highlights extreme measures for protection.
- The mere rumor of a spring gun was enough to keep trespassers away.
Variants and Related Words
- Trap gun: A more general synonym for a firearm set as a trap.
- Set gun: Another term for a firearm that is fixed and triggered automatically.
- Booby trap: A broader category of hidden traps, which can include spring guns.
Synonyms
- Trap gun
- Set gun
- Automatic trap
Related Phrases
- To set a spring gun: The action of installing and arming such a trap.
- It is reckless to set a spring gun without proper warnings.
- Spring-gun trap: A compound phrase emphasizing its function as a trapping device.
Notes
- Legal Warning: The deployment of spring guns is widely illegal because they are indiscriminate and can cause severe injury or death to humans and animals, regardless of intent. The term frequently appears in legal texts and warnings about unlawful property defense.
Noun
- a gun that is set to fire on any intruder that comes in contact with the wire that sets it off