ammunition

word

/ˌæmjəˈnɪʃən/
am-yuh-NI-shuhn
/ˌæmjuːnˈɪʃən/
am-yoo-NI-shuhn

Definition

Ammunition is the bullets, shells, or other materials that are fired from a weapon. It can also be used figuratively to mean facts or ideas someone can use to support an argument or attack someone verbally.

Usage & Nuances

Usually uncountable: say 'some ammunition' or 'a box of ammunition,' not 'an ammunition.' In everyday use it is common in military, hunting, and police contexts. Figuratively, 'give someone ammunition' means giving them material they can use against you.

Example Sentences

The soldiers checked their ammunition before the mission.

basic

The police found a gun and some ammunition in the car.

basic

We do not have enough ammunition for training today.

basic

Don't post that online—you'll just give them more ammunition.

natural

The leaked emails gave reporters plenty of ammunition.

natural

They were running low on ammunition, so they pulled back.

natural