Smoking gun

/smˈəʊkɪŋ ɡˈʌn/

/smˈoʊkɪŋ ɡˈʌn/

[noun]

Smoking gun

[NOUN]

a piece of evidence that is used to prove someone's crimes or wrong deeds

What is the origin of the idiom "smoking gun" and when to use it?

The idiom "smoking gun" has its origins in the world of detective fiction and crime investigations. It gained wider popularity and usage in the 20th century. It is used in discussions related to criminal investigations, scandals, legal proceedings, or situations where conclusive proof is presented.

Examples

1. The Sage by Heston Blumenthal, Smoking Gun, lets you infuse food and drinks with unique smoky flavors.

2. In 2012, The Smoking Gun uncovered that Raiola was arrested in 2001 for selling cocaine - as part of a larger undercover investigation by the DEA.

3. In 2009, The Smoking Gun discovered that, eight years earlier, Howard had been arrested for assaulting Lori McCommas, his estranged wife.

4. According to the Smoking Gun, Harrelson wrote a character reference letter to help Snipes during the sentencing phase of his tax evasion trial.

Nearby words