at gunpoint

at gunpoint

1. Literally, in a position of having a gun pointed at one, as in an armed robbery. The robber held the security guard at gunpoint.

2. By extension, in a position of being held under extreme pressure or aggressively coerced. Don't try to hold me at gunpoint—I'll make a decision when I'm good and ready!

at gunpoint

Also, at knifepoint. Under coercion, as in I'm going to hold him at gunpoint for that raise he promised me last year. Both these phrases were at first used literally and later also figuratively. [Mid-1900s]

at gunpoint

Under or as if under the threat of being shot.