rifles

word · lemma: rifle

/ˈɹaɪfəɫz/
RY-fuhlz
/ɹˈaɪfəlz/
RY-fuhlz

Definition

Rifles are long guns that are usually fired from the shoulder and have a grooved barrel for shooting bullets accurately. The word is often used to refer to more than one of these weapons.

Usage & Nuances

"Rifles" is the plural of "rifle" and refers specifically to firearms with rifled barrels, not shotguns or handguns. Common collocations: "hunting rifles", "assault rifles". Usually formal or neutral; talking about weapons.

Example Sentences

Soldiers carry rifles for protection.

basic

The museum has old rifles on display.

basic

He collects antique rifles as a hobby.

basic

Some hunters prefer using rifles instead of bows.

natural

The police found two rifles hidden in the bag.

natural

When the alarm sounded, the guards quickly grabbed their rifles.

natural