das Gewehr
Translation
rifle, gun
Examples
Der Soldat trägt ein Gewehr.
The soldier is carrying a rifle.
Er reinigt sein altes Jagdgewehr.
He is cleaning his old hunting rifle.
Grammar Patterns
das Gewehr ((as sth.)) to use the rifle (as sth.) The hunter uses the rifle for hunting.
Similar Words
Synonyms: die Flinte (shotgun), die Büchse (rifle)
Etymology
From Middle High German 'gewer' (defense). The prefix 'Ge-' often indicates a collective or a tool, and 'Wehr' means defense. So, a 'tool for defense'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'Ge-WEHR' as a tool used to 'wehren' (defend) oneself.