Definition

The sound or action of guns being fired.

Example

The sound of gunfire echoed through the valley.

Conversation

Did you hear that gunfire last night during the storm?

Yeah, it was pretty loud and startling!

I thought it was just thunder at first.

Same here, but then I realized it was probably just some fireworks.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gunfire → The word is formed from "gun" (from Middle English *gunne*, meaning a type of firearm) and "fire" (from Old English *fyr*, meaning combustion or flame). The term "gunfire" refers to the discharge of a firearm, producing a burst of flame and sound.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'gun' that produces 'fire' when it is discharged — that's what gunfire means.

Visually Confused Words