Gunnies: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
August 9, 2023

The idiom "gunnies" is a slang term that refers to people obsessed with guns and firearms. They are usually enthusiastic about collecting, shooting, and discussing guns and often have a strong political stance on gun rights and regulations.

In short:

  • "Gunnies" means people who love guns and firearms.
  • The term is often used negatively or sarcastically.

What Does "Gunnies" Mean?

People who are really into guns and firearms are called "gunnies" in slang. They enjoy collecting, shooting, and talking about guns.

Where Does "Gunnies" Come From?

The origin of the term "gunnies" is not clear, but it is likely a combination of the words "gun" and "bunny." A "bunny" is a slang term for cute, fluffy, or harmless animals like rabbits. By adding the suffix "-y" or "-ie" to a noun, it creates a diminutive or affectionate form of the word, such as "doggy" or "sweetie." Therefore, a "gunny" could be seen as a playful or ironic way of describing someone fond of guns.

Historical Example

"The NRA [National Rifle Association] has always been run by what one former official calls "the gunnies," men (almost always) who collect guns the way some people collect stamps and who regard any attempt to regulate firearms as an infringement on their constitutional rights."

— excerpt of an article from the The Nation magazine, written by Robert Sherrill in 1977

10 Examples of "Gunnies" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use the idiom "gunnies" in sentences:

  • He's one of those gunnies who happily spends all his money buying new rifles and pistols.
  • She doesn't like gunnies because she thinks they are gnarly and irresponsible.
  • Just the Facts, Ma'am, they are proud to be gunnies and support the Second Amendment.
  • Yoink! He was surprised to find out that his girlfriend was a gunny too.
  • Ben joined a club for gunnies where he could meet other people who shared the same passion.
  • He was annoyed by the gunnies who kept arguing with him about gun control.
  • Yaas! Lily wanted to impress the gunnies by showing off her shooting skills. And she did it well!
  • He was afraid of the gunnies who threatened him online, so he reported them to the police.
  • He is amused by the gunnies who dressed up as cowboys and soldiers. He cosplays them for a cheap thrill.
  • She was curious about the gunnies and decided to visit a gun show out of the blue. She enjoyed it!

Examples of "Gunnies" in Pop Culture

The idiom "gunnies" has also been used in various forms of media and entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, books, and music.

Some examples are:

  • The Gunny (1986) is a movie starring Clint Eastwood as a retired Marine Corps gunnery sergeant who trains young recruits for a mission in Grenada.
  • The Gunny Wolf (1949) is a children's book by Wilhelmina Harper that tells the story of a little girl who encounters a wolf that loves guns.
  • "Gunnie" (2018), a song by Lil Uzi Vert, features lyrics such as: "I'm no rapper I'm a gunnie / I got your girl she on her knees / She sucks me up like a Slurpee."

Other Ways to Say "Gunnies"

Some other words or expressions that can be used to convey the same or similar meaning as "gunnies" are:

  • Gun nuts
  • Gun lovers
  • Gun aficionados
  • Gun fanatics

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Gunnies"

Here are some common questions and answers about the idiom "gunnies":

  • What does "gunnies" mean?

The idiom "gunnies" is a slang term that refers to people obsessed with guns and firearms. They are usually enthusiastic about collecting, shooting, and discussing guns and often have a strong political stance on gun rights and regulations.

  • What is the origin of "gunnies"?

The origin of the term "gunnies" is not clear, but it is likely a combination of the words "gun" and "bunny."

  • What are some synonyms for "gunnies"?

Some synonyms for "gunnies" are gun nuts, gun lovers, gun aficionados, gun fanatics, gun geeks, gun buffs, gun freaks, and gun hobbyists.

  • What are some antonyms for "gunnies"?

Some antonyms for "gunnies" are gun haters, gun opponents, gun critics, gun protesters, gun phobics, and gun avoiders.

  • Is "gunnies" a positive or negative term?

It depends on the context and the tone of the speaker. Some people may use it as a compliment or a self-identification, while others may use it as an insult or a stereotype.

  • How did "gunnies" become popular?

Mainly because of the community that surrounds gun enthusiasm as a hobby. And through the influence of the internet.

  • How do you pronounce "gunnies"?

The word "gunnies" is pronounced as /ˈɡʌniz/, with a short "u" sound and a "z" sound at the end.

  • How do you spell "gunnies"?

The word "gunnies" is spelled as G-U-N-N-I-E-S, with two "n"s and an "e" before the final "s."

  • What is the difference between "gunny" and "gunny sack"?

A "gunny" is a person who loves guns, while a "gunny sack" is a type of bag made from coarse fabric, often used to store or transport agricultural products, such as potatoes or coffee beans.

  • What is the difference between "gunny" and "gunsel"?

A "gunny" is a person who loves guns, while a "gunsel" is a slang term for a hired gunman or a criminal who uses guns.

Final Thoughts About "Gunnies"

The idiom "gunnies" is a slang term that refers to people obsessed with guns and firearms. Depending on the context and the speaker, it can have positive or negative connotations. The term originated from either a combination of the words "gun" and "bunny" or a nickname for a gunnery sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

In summary:

  • The idiom means people who love guns and firearms.
  • The term can be used positively or negatively.
  • The origin is unclear but may be related to either bunnies or sergeants.
  • The term has been used in various forms of media and entertainment.
  • There are other ways to say or spell the word.

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