gunfire
UK: ˈɡʌnfaɪə | US: ˈɡʌnfaɪər
n. the repeated firing of guns or the sound produced by it
n. (figuratively) a situation characterized by intense conflict or criticism
The word "gunfire" is a straightforward compound of "gun" (from Old Norse "gunnr," meaning war) and "fire" (from Old English "fȳr," meaning combustion or discharge). It emerged in the 19th century to describe the sound or action of guns being discharged, reflecting the literal combination of its components. The term later gained metaphorical use to describe verbal or ideological clashes.
The distant gunfire echoed through the valley.
Soldiers took cover during the intense gunfire.
The debate turned into a verbal gunfire of accusations.
Gunfire erupted at dawn, signaling the start of the battle.
The ceasefire agreement silenced the gunfire temporarily.