Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
semiautomatic
Adjective
/ˌsɛm.i.ˈɔː.təˌmæt.ɪk/
Definition
A firearm that is capable of firing one round each time the trigger is pulled, automatically ejecting the spent cartridge and chambering a new round, but requires a separate trigger pull for each shot.
Examples
- The semiautomatic pistol is popular among recreational shooters.
- During the training, participants learned to operate semiautomatic rifles effectively.
- This news article discusses the implications of semiautomatic weapon regulations.
Meaning
The term semiautomatic refers to a mechanism that requires manual action to initiate the next cycle, but performs certain functions automatically.
Synonyms
- Self-loading
- Automatic
- Half-automatic
