starter's pistol

Sprint's opening shot

A starter's pistol is a handgun that fires blanks, used to signal the beginning of a race.

The loud report gives runners a clear, simultaneous cue to start.

Because it produces sound without a projectile, it's safe for use around crowds: The official raised the starter's pistol and fired into the air.

signal

ready

Suitable for use now

trigger · activation · cue · prompt · initiate · launch · countdown · anticipation · mark · command

device

blank cartridge

Bulletless firearm charge

  • cap gunNoisemaking play weapon
  • flareSudden bright burst
  • smokeAirborne combustion byproduct

mechanism · trigger · barrel · grip · chamber · airhorn · klaxon

athletics

track

Path or monitored route

  • sprintBrief maximum-speed effort
  • relayStage-by-stage transmission
  • blocksObstructs or sections

runners · heats · finals · marathon · dash · finish line · swimming · lane · photo finish · stagger

sound

bang

Sudden loud noise

  • reportFormal written findings
  • blastSudden forceful burst
  • crackNarrow break or attempt

pop · boom · echo · deafening · sharp · loud · resonance · gunshot · discharge · retort

Opposites
race phase

starter's pistolfinish line

Race completion marker

finish tape · checkered flag · medal podium · victory lap · photo finish

firearm purpose

starter's pistolassault rifle

Automatic infantry combat weapon

sniper rifle · service weapon · murder weapon · hunting rifle · loaded gun

signal type

starter's pistolwhistle

Shrill air-blown sounder

red flag · pause button

Family

starter, start, started, starting, starts, restart, restarter, restarted, restarting

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G