Meaning & Definition of word "Assault"

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    Assault

    /əˈsɔlt/

    noun:

    • 1. A violent physical attack.
      • Example: The man was charged with assault after attacking his neighbor.
    • 2. A sudden, intense attack or incursion.
      • Example: The army launched an assault on the enemy's fortress at dawn.
    • 3. An attempt to do something, especially a creative endeavor.
      • Example: The artist's latest exhibition was an assault on traditional norms of art.

    verb:

    • 1. To make a physical attack on.
      • Example: The suspect was arrested after he assaulted a police officer.
    • 2. To attack someone verbally, in writing, or in some other form.
      • Example: The politician's opponents assaulted his character with false accusations.
    • 3. To make a sudden, concerted effort to achieve something.
      • Example: The team assaulted the problem with innovative solutions.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old French 'assaut', from Latin 'assultus', from 'assalire' meaning 'to jump at'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    sexual assault:

    A crime involving unwanted sexual contact.

    assault and battery:

    The unlawful use of force against another person.

    assault on character:

    An attack or criticism aimed at someone's personal qualities.

    Related Words

    battery:

    The unlawful use of force against another person with intent to harm.

    attack:

    To take aggressive action against someone or something.

    offense:

    A violation of law or a moral rule.

    Slang Meanings of assault

    Meaning: Jump someone

    Example Sentence: They decided to jump someone in the alley.

    Meaning: Take a shot at

    Example Sentence: I might take a shot at him if he keeps bothering me.