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REFERENCE

shooter

n.
US //ˈʃutɝ// UK //ʃˈuːtɐ// shoot·er
  1. 1 person with a weapon (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a person who shoots a gun or a bow and arrow.

    an individual who discharges a firearm or other projectile weapon, such as an archer or marksman.

    Example

    The police were looking for a lone shooter who had been seen near the park.

    Example

    The Olympic shooter maintained a steady breath as she aligned her sights with the distant target, demonstrating remarkable focus under pressure.
  2. 2 video game genre (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    a video game where the main goal is to shoot enemies.

    a subgenre of action video games where the gameplay is primarily focused on the use of firearms or other long-range weapons.

    Example

    He spent the whole weekend playing a first-person shooter with his friends online.

    Example

    Modern tactical shooters often prioritise realistic ballistics and team coordination over the fast-paced, arcade-style mechanics of earlier titles.
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  1. 3 alcoholic drink (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a small alcoholic drink, often a mix of different spirits, served in a shot glass.

    a small serving of spirits or a mixed alcoholic beverage intended to be consumed in a single swallow.

    Example

    The bartender prepared a round of shooters for the birthday party.

    Example

    The menu featured a variety of colourful shooters, ranging from sweet fruit-based mixtures to potent combinations of tequila and spicy liqueurs.
  2. 4 photographer (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Technical

    a person who takes professional photos or videos.

    a professional photographer or cinematographer, especially one working in a fast-paced or journalistic environment.

    Example

    The magazine hired a local shooter to cover the music festival.

    Example

    As a veteran shooter for the news agency, she had developed an instinct for being in the right place before the action even started.
  3. 5 loyal supporter (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Slang

    a very loyal friend or fan who will always defend you.

    a loyal associate or advocate prepared to defend a person's interests, sometimes by aggressive means.

    Example

    He is a real shooter for his team and always speaks up for them.

    Example

    In the competitive world of corporate politics, having a few dedicated shooters in your inner circle can be the difference between success and a forced resignation.
Origin

From Middle English schoter, schuter, schotter, scheter, schetare, scheotere, from Old English sċēotere (“shooter”), equivalent to shoot + -er. Compare Dutch schieter, schutter (“shooter”), German Schießer (“shooter”), Swedish skjutare, West Frisian sjitter (“shooter”).

Idioms2 entries

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