# automatic pistol

**Pronunciation:** /ˌɔːtəˈmætɪk ˈpɪstəl/ · AW-tuh-MAT-ik PIS-tuhl

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

A handgun that uses the energy from a fired cartridge to eject the empty casing and load the next round into the chamber automatically.

## Examples

- Modern police forces have largely replaced revolvers with the automatic pistol for its higher ammunition capacity.
- He spent the afternoon at the range practicing his aim with a semi-automatic pistol.
- The historical exhibit displayed an early model of the automatic pistol alongside its original leather holster.

## Synonyms

- handgun — A general term for any firearm designed to be held in one hand.
- semi-automatic — Technically more accurate for most pistols that fire one shot per trigger pull.
- sidearm — Refers to a weapon carried by military or police personnel at their side.
- self-loader — A technical or older term describing the mechanism of the firearm.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/automatic%20pistol

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)