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hangfire

[ hang-fahyuh r ]

/ ˈhæŋˌfaɪər /

noun

a delay in the detonation of gunpowder or other ammunition, caused by some defect in the fuze.

Origin of hangfire

First recorded in 1890–95; hang + fire

Words nearby hangfire

hangdog, hanged for a sheep as a lamb, might as well be, hanged, drawn, and quartered, hanger, hanger-on, hangfire, hangi, hanging, hanging gardens of babylon, hanging glacier, hanging indentation

Example sentences from the Web for hangfire

In the case of a misfire, don't open the bolt immediately, as it may be a hangfire.

Manual for Noncommissioned Officers and Privates of Cavalry of the Army |War Department.