Flare Gun
/ˈflɛər ˌɡʌn/noun
A gun-like device that launches bright signal flares, usually for communication or emergency distress signaling.
Did you know?The word “gun” ultimately traces to Gunnhild, a legendary Old Norse woman’s name that became associated with a powerful cannon in medieval England.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhel-
“To shine, flash, or burn brightly; a proposed ancestral root connected with several fire-related words.”
Classical Latin
Latin
flagrare
“To burn or blaze; the source of English words such as “flagrant” and “conflagration.””
Middle English
English
gunne
“A cannon or large projectile weapon; probably influenced by the name Gunnhild.”
16th Century
English
flare
“To burn or spread out suddenly, especially as a flame or light.”
19th Century
English
flare
“A bright signaling light or pyrotechnic device.”
20th Century
English
flare gun
“A gun-shaped launcher used to fire signal flares, especially for distress calls.”
Explore more surprising origins