Rifle

Definition

Rifle refers to a portable, long-barreled firearm designed for precision shooting, equipped with a rifled bore for increased accuracy. It can also refer to the act of searching thoroughly through something, often in a hurried or careless manner.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈraɪfəl/
• Respelling: RYE-ful (with "RYE" as in "rye," and "ful" as in "careful")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈraɪfəl/
• Respelling: RYE-ful (similar to American English, with "RYE" as in "rye," and "ful" as in "careful")

In both dialects, "rifle" is pronounced with a long "i" sound in the first syllable "RYE," followed by a "ful" ending. The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, making it straightforward to understand.

Etymology

The term "rifle" as a noun derives from the Old French word "rifler" which means to scratch or graze. The reference to the firearm comes from the rifling process where the inside of the barrel is grooved to impart spin on the projectile for better range and accuracy. As a verb, "rifle" comes from the same Old French word "rifler," which was used in the sense of plundering or searching thoroughly.

Derivatives

• Rifling
• Rifleman
• Rifler
• Riflebird (though unrelated in meaning, shares the root word)
• Riflescope

Synonyms

Noun

• Long gun
• Firearm

Verb

• Ransack
• Search

Antonyms

Verb

• Organize
• Arrange
• Neaten

Usage

The term "rifle" is predominantly used to refer to a type of firearm, and it's also used as a verb to describe the act of searching through something quickly and carelessly.

Related Terms

• Gun
• Firearm
• Shotgun
• Rifling
• Munitions

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Firearm: A weapon intended for accurate shooting at longer distances. It's characterized by a long barrel with a rifled bore which imparts a spin to the projectile for better stability in flight and thus greater accuracy.‍
• Example: The soldier carried a rifle for long-range engagements.

Verb

• Search Thoroughly: The act of searching quickly and carelessly often with the intent to steal or find something.‍
• Example: Someone rifled through the drawers, scattering the contents everywhere.