ASSAULT RIFLE Meaning and
Definition
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An assault rifle refers to a military-style firearm that is designed for rapid fire and intermediate range engagements. It is a selective-fire weapon, capable of firing in automatic or semi-automatic modes. These rifles typically incorporate a detachable magazine and utilize intermediate cartridge ammunition.
Characterized by their lightweight, compact design, assault rifles are built to provide ease of handling and manoeuvrability, making them suitable for both individual soldiers and small combat units. The term "assault" in "assault rifle" does not refer to the rifle's primary function of initiating an attack, but rather stems from its common usage in close-quarter combat or assault operations.
Assault rifles also commonly feature a pistol grip and a shoulder stock, allowing the weapon to be shouldered for better stability during firing. The intermediate cartridges used in these firearms possess a ballistic trajectory that falls between traditional pistol and rifle rounds, offering a balance between accuracy, range, and recoil.
It is worth noting that "assault rifle" is distinct from "assault weapon," which is a broader term encompassing various firearms with rapid-fire capabilities, including semi-automatic rifles. While assault rifles are primarily used by military personnel and law enforcement agencies, they are subject to regulation in many jurisdictions due to their potential for misuse in civilian settings.
Common Misspellings for ASSAULT RIFLE
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Etymology of ASSAULT RIFLE
The word "assault rifle" is a compound term composed of two distinct parts.
The term "assault" originates from the Latin verb "assultare", which means "to leap upon, assail, attack". It later entered Middle English in the 14th century with the same meaning. Over time, "assault" came to typically refer to a violent physical attack or an act of aggression.
The term "rifle" has a more complex etymology. It can be traced back to the French word "rifler", meaning "to scratch or groove". This refers to the grooves present in the barrel of a firearm, which spin the bullet and enhance its accuracy. "Rifle" was first used in English in the early 18th century to specifically describe a firearm with a rifled barrel.
Similar spelling words for ASSAULT RIFLE
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