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Translate files Attack
/əˈtæk/
Meaning & Definition
noun
an aggressive and violent action against a person or a place.
The attack on the city caused widespread destruction.
a sudden and aggressive attempt to hurt or damage.
He suffered a heart attack while jogging.
verb
to take aggressive action against (someone or something); to assault or start a fight.
The army launched an attack on the enemy's stronghold.
to criticize or confront aggressively.
The journalist attacked the politician's controversial policies in her article.
Etymology
Middle French 'attaquer', from Latin 'attaccare' meaning 'to touch or lay hands on'
Common Phrases and Expressions
attack of nerves
A sudden feeling of anxiety or panic.
attack the problem
To approach a task or issue with determination.
preemptive attack
An attack initiated to prevent an anticipated threat.
Related Words
defense
The action of protecting from or resisting an attack.
aggression
Hostile or violent behavior toward another.
assault
A physical attack.
strike
To hit someone or something.
Slang Meanings
To criticize someone harshly.
He was attacked on social media for his comments.
To go after something with enthusiasm.
She attacked her homework with vigor.