carbine

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a lightweight rifle with a barrel shorter than that of a standard rifle

   The mounted scout carried a carbine that was easier to handle on horseback.

Borrowed from French carabine, from carabin ("a mounted soldier armed with a carbine"). The firearm was associated with cavalry because its short barrel made it easier to use on horseback; the deeper origin of the French term is uncertain.

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