revolver

noun

re·​volv·​er ri-ˈväl-vər How to pronounce revolver (audio)
-ˈvȯl-
also -ˈvä-vər
or -ˈvȯ-vər
Synonyms of revolvernext
1
: one that revolves
2
: a handgun with a cylinder of several chambers brought successively into line with the barrel and discharged with the same hammer

Examples of revolver in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scavs are also walking around with better gear than usual, including revolvers and lever-action rifles. — Mike Stubbs, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 The two men struggled over Stokes’ revolver before Chan got control over his attacker’s weapon and shot him in the body and face, sources said. — John Annese, New York Daily News, 15 June 2026 Later audio analysis from that night noted as many as 13 shots—even though Sirhan’s revolver could only hold eight rounds. — Sophia Zhang, Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 May 2026 Knoxville, who was writing an article that led him to test self-defense equipment by using various weapons on himself, fires a revolver at his own chest from point-blank range while wearing a bulletproof vest. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for revolver

Word History

Etymology

revolve + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of revolver was circa 1835

Rhymes for revolver

See All Rhymes for revolver

Browse Nearby Words

revolvency
revolver
revolvered
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Revolver.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/revolver. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

revolver

noun
re·​volv·​er ri-ˈväl-vər How to pronounce revolver (audio)
-ˈvȯl-
: a handgun having a revolving cylinder holding several bullets all of which may be shot without loading again
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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