GUNNER, an officer appointed for the service of the cannon, or one skilled to fire the guns.
In the Tower of London, and other garrisons, as well as in the field, this officer carries a field-staff, and a large powder-horn in a string over his left shoulder; he marches by the guns; and when there is any apprehension of danger, his field-staff is armed with match. His business is to lay the gun to pass, and to help to load and traverse her.