ghost gun

noun

plural ghost guns
: a gun that lacks a serial number by which it can be identified and that is typically assembled by the user (as from purchased or homemade components)
Ghost guns, cobbled together with various parts often purchased separately, are popular among hobbyists and firearms enthusiasts.St. Louis Post-Dispatch
The issue centers on so-called ghost guns, which consist of untraceable parts that can be ordered online and then, with a little finishing work, assembled into a working firearm.Los Angeles Times
Even so, they haven't been outlawed; buying or selling a ghost gun is illegal, but making one remains kosher under US gun control laws.Andy Greenberg

Examples of ghost gun 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.
Mangione also faces charges in Pennsylvania, where police said he was captured with a ghost gun, silencer and writings expressing ill will toward corporate America on his person. Zach Schonfeld, The Hill, 19 Dec. 2024 When Mangione was arrested, police found a ghost gun, as well as a notebook with detailed plans of the killing, and a handwritten manifesto decrying the health insurance industry. Mia Galuppo, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 Dec. 2024 The University of Pennsylvania graduate was allegedly found with a ghost gun, or an unserialized and untraceable firearm that is often assembled by hand. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 16 Dec. 2024 More:Supreme Court discusses omelets when debating whether 'ghost guns' can be regulated Most of the laws regulating ghost guns are a patchwork of state rules, although President Joe Biden pledged this year to change that. Michael Loria, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ghost gun 

Word History

First Known Use

2012, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ghost gun was in 2012

Dictionary Entries Near ghost gun

Cite this Entry

“Ghost gun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ghost%20gun. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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