Looking for the meaning or definition of the word shotgun? Here's what it means.
Noun
(firearms) A gun which fires loads typically consisting of small metal balls, called shot, from a cartridge.
(slang) The front passenger seat in a vehicle, next to the driver; so called because the position of the shotgun-armed guard on a horse-drawn stage-coach, wagon train, or gold transport was next to the driver on a forward-mounted bench seat.
(US, especially Southern US) A one-story dwelling with no hallways or corridors, with the rooms arranged in a straight line.
(American football) A play formation in which the quarterback is a few feet behind the snapper when the ball is hiked, ideally allowing for an easier pass play.
Verb
(slang, smoking) To inhale from a pipe or other smoking device, followed shortly by an exhalation into someone else’s mouth.
(transitive, informal) To verbally lay claim to (something)
(transitive, baseball) To hit the ball directly back at the pitcher.
(US, slang) To rapidly drink a beverage from a can by making a hole in the bottom of the can, placing the hole above one's mouth, and opening the top.
(US, slang) To send out many (requests, answers to a question, etc), especially in the hope that one obtains a positive result (i.e. reveals useful information, is correct, etc), in the manner of a shotgun firing many balls of shot such that one may hit a target.
Adjective
Of or relating to a shotgun.
Occurring as a result of the threat of force.
Utilizing numerous or highly diverse means to achieve a particular result.
