Definition

A long, narrow tube used to blow darts or pellets by using breath to propel them.

Example

The hunter used a blowgun to silently catch his dinner.

Conversation

Have you ever tried using a blowgun?

No, I haven't! How does it work?

It's pretty simple; you just blow into the tube to shoot darts.

That sounds fun! I’d love to give it a try sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Blowgun → The word is formed from "blow" (from Old English "blāwan", meaning to emit air) and "gun" (from Middle English "gunne", meaning a tube or pipe). A blowgun is a tube through which air is blown to propel a projectile.

Memory Tip

Think of 'blowing' air through a 'tube' — that's how a blowgun works to shoot projectiles.

Visually Confused Words