# ATF

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/atf
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. A government group in the United States that makes sure people follow laws about these items.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. A federal law enforcement agency within the United States Department of Justice responsible for investigating and preventing federal offences involving firearms, explosives, and the illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco products.

## Examples

- The ATF agents arrived to inspect the local gun shop.
- Following the discovery of illegal weapons, the local police department coordinated with the ATF to trace the serial numbers.
- The ATF maintains jurisdiction over the enforcement of federal regulations concerning the interstate commerce of restricted substances and the licensing of firearms dealers across the country.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun referring to the specific U.S. agency; typically used with the definite article 'the'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.