What does pistol mean?
A pistol is a handgun, normally a relatively small firearm intended to be held and fired with one hand. The word is used in legal, military, journalistic, and fictional contexts, often with emphasis on the weapon’s compact size or immediate danger. In British English, “pistol” can sometimes refer more specifically to a semiautomatic handgun, although in general modern use it is broader and may include revolvers. The related verb “pistol” means to shoot with a pistol, but it is relatively uncommon compared with the noun. The word has also entered figurative expressions and descriptions of objects shaped or designed like a pistol grip, but its central meaning remains the one-handed firearm. It is distinct from “rifle,” a long gun normally fired from the shoulder, and from “revolver,” which names a handgun according to its revolving-cylinder mechanism rather than its general size or handling.
A small handgun designed to be held and fired with one hand.
"He aimed the pistol toward the door."
The word is used in both British and American English; in British usage it may sometimes suggest a semiautomatic handgun specifically.
To shoot someone or something with a pistol.
"The character was pistoled in the opening scene."
This verb is uncommon in ordinary modern usage and is more often encountered in narrative or historical contexts.
The regular plural is used for multiple pistols or for a collection of pistols.
"The two pistols were locked inside a metal case."
The word “pistol” traveled into English through French and Italian, reflecting the long European history of the sidearm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pistol come from?
The English word entered through Old French “pistole,” which was borrowed from Italian “pistola.” The Italian word is commonly connected with an Ancient Greek term associated with throwing or flinging, although the precise ultimate derivation is not fully certain. The firearm sense developed during the early modern period, as compact handguns became more widely known in Europe.
Related word forms
How pistol is actually used
In everyday English, “pistol” is a general term for a handgun. In British usage it may sometimes suggest a semiautomatic handgun specifically, while “revolver” refers to a particular operating mechanism.
Easily confused with pistol
A revolver is a handgun whose chamber revolves to bring the next cartridge into firing position, whereas “pistol” is a broader term for a handgun held in one hand.