shoulder weapon

[ shohl-der wep-uhn ]

noun
  1. a firearm that is fired while being held in the hands with the butt of the weapon braced against the shoulder.

  • Also shoul·der gun [shohl-der guhn], /ˈʃoʊl dər ˌgʌn/, shoul·der arm [shohl-der ahrm] /ˈʃoʊl dər ˌɑrm/ .

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use shoulder weapon in a sentence

  • Sergeant Meyer gave the order: "Shoulder arms—ready—present—aim—fire!"

    Overland | John William De Forest
  • "Shoulder Arms" was pretty good, perhaps, but all this clamour over a moving-picture actor!

    My Wonderful Visit | Charlie Chaplin
  • Mr. Chaplin, the reading of the letter in 'Shoulder Arms' was the high spot of the picture.

    My Wonderful Visit | Charlie Chaplin
  • We may shoulder arms again, and go back to Konopischt: no fight here!

  • Pass, Colonel Peckham,' said Sam, bringing his musket promptly to a shoulder arms.

    Frank Before Vicksburg | Harry Castlemon