pistol

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Informal · American English

n. a person who is very lively, energetic, or determined.

n. a person characterised by high energy, spirit, or a feisty temperament.

“Even at eighty years old, my grandmother is a real pistol.”

“The new intern is a total pistol, constantly pitching ambitious ideas and working late to ensure every detail is perfect.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Sports American English · Technical

n. a specific way players stand in American football to start a play.

n. an offensive formation in American football where the quarterback stands a few yards behind the centre with a running back behind him.

“The team switched to the pistol formation to confuse the defense.”

“By utilising the pistol formation, the offense was able to maintain a strong running game while still threatening a quick passing attack.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Science Technical

n. the part of a bomb or torpedo that makes it explode.

n. the mechanical device in a bomb, mine, or torpedo that triggers the detonator upon impact or at a set time.

“The technician carefully inspected the pistol of the torpedo before loading it.”

“The failure of the weapon was attributed to a faulty pistol that failed to ignite the main explosive charge upon contact with the hull.”

C1 · Advanced Literary

v. to shoot someone or something with a pistol.

v. to shoot a target or individual using a handgun.

“The outlaw was pistoled during the confrontation at the saloon.”

“In the final chapter of the novel, the protagonist is pistoled by his rival in a dramatic showdown on the cliffs.”