The name "Smithereens," which may sound a bit odd for a firearm, was originally a nickname given to the weapon shortly after its development.
It was first created to serve as a powerful countermeasure against giant enemies like the Colossi. The shotgun's characteristic firepower was effective against large targets like the Colossi.
Once completed, its destructive power and kinetic energy far exceeded early estimations. It got the name "Smithereens" after its synergy with the CLSS Buckshot Shotgun Bullet, developed specifically to target large Colossi, demonstrated overwhelming power to destroy everything in its path.