ramrod

[ram-rod]

noun

1. a rod for ramming down the charge of a muzzleloading firearm.

2. a cleaning rod for the barrel of a firearm.

3. a strict disciplinarian; martinet.

verb (used with object)

ramrodded, ramrodding 

1. to exert discipline and authority on.

2. to strike or injure with or as if with a ramrod.

3. to accomplish or put into action by force, intimidation, etc..

   to ramrod a bill through Congress.

ramrod

/ ˈræmˌrɒd /

noun

1. a rod for cleaning the barrel of a rifle or other small firearms

2. a rod for ramming in the charge of a muzzle-loading firearm

Word History and Origins

Origin of ramrod¹

First recorded in 1750–60; ram ¹ + rod

Example Sentences

Hailey, a ramrod military veteran, refuses to be a redneck’s lunch.

From Los Angeles Times

The soul of the movie is in watching these ramrod opposites bend and intertwine.

From Los Angeles Times

General Kitson was short and stocky, with a ramrod posture and a high, nasal voice.

From New York Times

The other side to that stubbornness: ramrod determination and an unsinking resilience.

From Los Angeles Times

There was another, more admirable side to that stubbornness and refusal to quit: A ramrod determination and unsinking resilience that girded Feinstein through a lifetime filled with maelstrom.

From Los Angeles Times