shotguns
word · lemma: shotgun
Definition
Shotguns are long guns that fire a spread of small pellets instead of a single bullet, often used for hunting or sport shooting. The word is also used metaphorically for someone riding in the front passenger seat ('riding shotgun').
Usage & Nuances
'Shotguns' is plural. Common with 'double-barreled', 'pump-action', 'reload'. Used in hunting, sport, and police contexts. Not the same as 'rifle.' In American English, 'call shotgun' means to claim the front passenger seat.
Example Sentences
The police found two shotguns in the car.
basic
Hunters use shotguns for birds and small animals.
basic
The store sells different shotguns for sport shooting.
basic
When we go on road trips, my brother always calls 'shotgun' to get the front seat.
natural
He collects old shotguns from the 19th century.
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We're not allowed to bring shotguns to that area without a special permit.
natural