1
: a groove running lengthwise on the surface of a cylinder or column
2
a
: a groove around the cylinder of an elongated bullet for small arms to contain a lubricant
b
: a groove around a bullet into which the edge of the cartridge case is crimped
c
: a groove around the rotating band of a gun projectile to lessen the resistance offered to the rifling
d
: a groove around the base of a cartridge where the extractor takes hold
Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share