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.
Law enforcement agencies recovered about 1,600 ghost guns in 2017, according to the federal agency. Michael Loria, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024 In Pennsylvania, Mangione faces charges including allegedly possessing an untraceable ghost gun. Aaron Katersky, ABC News, 12 Dec. 2024 At the time of his arrest, Mangione had with him a ghost gun thought to be used in the shooting, a fake ID and three pages of text possibly indicating his motive, police said. Ayana Archie, NPR, 10 Dec. 2024 The company is now prohibited from advertising in Maryland or selling ghost guns to Maryland residents. Sam Janesch, Baltimore Sun, 10 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 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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