squirt-gun

A child aims a squirt-gun at a target in the backyard.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A toy weapon: A "squirt-gun" is a small toy, typically made of plastic, that shoots a stream of water when its trigger is pressed. It is commonly used by children for outdoor play, especially during warm weather.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The children ran around the backyard with their squirt-guns, soaking each other. (A toy that shoots water for fun.)
  • He filled his squirt-gun from the garden hose before the water fight. (The act of preparing the toy for use.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a squirt-gun": to operate the toy for amusement.

  • She aimed the squirt-gun at her brother and pulled the trigger. (She used the toy to shoot water at him.)

• "to be armed with a squirt-gun": to be carrying or holding the toy in a playful manner.

  • The kids were all armed with squirt-guns for the summer battle. (They were ready for a water fight.)

Variants and Related Words

• Squirt (n): a small stream or jet of liquid; also a short form of "squirt-gun."
  • He gave her a squirt with the hose. (He sprayed a small amount of water.)
• Squirt (v): to eject liquid in a thin, fast stream.
  • The bottle squirted water when squeezed. (The liquid came out in a jet.)

Synonyms

• Water pistol: another common term for a toy that shoots water.
• Water gun: a broader term that can include larger or more elaborate water-shooting toys.

Related Idioms

Phrasal Verbs