rhizoverbBeta
DictionarycarbineShort-barreled rifle
noun

carbine

KAR-byne/ˈkɑːrbaɪn/

A lightweight rifle with a relatively short barrel.

The carbine has a short barrel and a slender stock.

An isolated compact carbine shown in clear side profile, its short barrel and slender stock emphasizing a lightweight rifle.
Etymology
carbineFrenchshort firearm

The French name was used for light horsemen as well as their weapon. This association fits the short rifle's historical use by mounted troops; the name's deeper origin remains uncertain.

In context

Forgotten Weapons1:07
we'd really like to have a light carbine, a light rifle, something in this sort of general form factor.
M1 Carbine: A Whole New Class of Weapon

More examples

  • The museum displays carbines once carried by mounted soldiers.
  • She recognized the carbine in the old photograph.
  • The guard locked his carbine in the weapons cabinet.

Forms

carbine · carbines

Similar words

rifle
A broader term that includes longer, heavier shoulder-fired guns.
pistol
Designed for handheld use rather than firing from the shoulder.