Gunflints

/ˈɡʌnflɪnts/ noun

Definition

Plural of gunflint; multiple pieces of flint stone used in flintlock firearms to create sparks for ignition.

Etymology

Plural of 'gunflint' (gun + flint). These were mass-produced items during the height of flintlock weapons, roughly 1650-1850, making them among the most numerous manufactured goods of the era.

Kelly Says

A single gunflint could fire hundreds of times before becoming too dull, but armies had to stockpile millions—the logistics of producing and transporting gunflints was as important to military success as producing gunpowder itself.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.