pistolwhip

Strike with firearm

To pistolwhip is to strike someone with a handgun, typically using the grip or barrel as a bludgeon rather than firing: The robber pistolwhipped the clerk when he didn't open the register fast enough.

The term evokes brutal, close-quarters violence—often associated with crime, interrogation, or police brutality.

Also spelled pistol-whip.

violence

assault

Violent offensive act

  • attackAggressive act against another
  • beatingRepeated striking or pulsing
  • batteryPortable electricity storage

strike · bludgeon · clubbing · thrashing · brutality · mugging · aggression · intimidation · coercion · threat

firearm

handgun

Firearm for single-hand use

  • revolverPistol with rotating chamber
  • sidearmPersonal weapon carried holstered
  • gripSecure manual hold

handle · barrel · holster · unloaded · weapon · piece · gat · heater · rod

motion

swing

Suspended recreational seat

  • strikeForceful impact or stoppage
  • bashForceful striking blow
  • smashBreak violently apart

crack · slam · whack · blow · hit · impact · backhand · sideswipe

Opposites
method of weapon use

pistolwhipshoot

Discharge or capture

fire · discharge · gun down · pull the trigger · open fire

violence vs. non-violence

pistolwhipcaress

Gentle loving touch

stroke · comfort · embrace · protect · heal

Family

pistolwhips, pistolwhipped, pistolwhipping

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG-13