taser: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Informal (predominantly journalistic, law enforcement, and general news contexts).
Quick answer
What does “taser” mean?
A device that fires two barbed electrodes connected by wires, delivering a high-voltage, low-current electrical charge designed to temporarily incapacitate a person by causing involuntary muscle contraction.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that fires two barbed electrodes connected by wires, delivering a high-voltage, low-current electrical charge designed to temporarily incapacitate a person by causing involuntary muscle contraction.
To use such a device on someone; (by extension) to stun or disable something figuratively.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling is the same. The device and its usage are reported identically in both media.
Connotations
Associated with police use-of-force debates and civilian self-defense. Connotations are context-dependent (safety tool vs. excessive force).
Frequency
Equally frequent in news/media in both varieties due to global coverage of law enforcement incidents.
Grammar
How to Use “taser” in a Sentence
[Subject] tasered [Object].[Object] was tasered by [Subject].The officer threatened to taser him.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “taser” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The PCSO was authorised to taser the aggressor if necessary.
- He was tasered after refusing to drop the weapon.
American English
- The deputy had to taser the suspect during the struggle.
- The suspect was tasered multiple times.
adverb
British English
- Not typically used.
American English
- Not typically used.
adjective
British English
- The taser deployment policy is under review.
- A taser warning shot was fired.
American English
- The taser cartridge needs replacing.
- He faced taser charges after the altercation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the company Axon (formerly TASER International) and its products.
Academic
Used in criminology, law, and sociology papers discussing police equipment and use-of-force statistics.
Everyday
Used in news reports and conversations about police encounters or self-defense.
Technical
Specific term in law enforcement and security training for a type of CEW.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “taser”
- Using 'taser' as a generic verb for any electric shock (e.g., 'I tasered myself on the socket' – incorrect). Confusing it with a cattle prod or a standard stun gun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, TASER is a registered trademark of Axon Enterprise, Inc., though it is often used generically.
While designed to be non-lethal, tasers can contribute to fatal outcomes, especially in cases involving underlying health conditions, drug use, or prolonged/excessive application. These incidents are highly controversial.
A stun gun requires direct contact with the target. A Taser (CEW) fires probes up to a distance (typically 4.5-10.5 metres), allowing remote incapacitation.
Yes. As a noun: "He carries a taser." As a verb: "The officer tasered the suspect." The verb form is very common in news reporting.
A device that fires two barbed electrodes connected by wires, delivering a high-voltage, low-current electrical charge designed to temporarily incapacitate a person by causing involuntary muscle contraction.
Taser is usually formal/informal (predominantly journalistic, law enforcement, and general news contexts). in register.
Taser: in British English it is pronounced /ˈteɪzə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈteɪzɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Go ahead, make my day" (cultural reference, not a direct idiom with 'taser')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'TASeR' – Takes A Suspect (or Someone) down Rapidly.
Conceptual Metaphor
A TASER is a modern, technological lasso or net (a tool for immediate, non-lethal capture).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a taser?