Meaning & Definition of word "Ambush"
to
Ambush
/ˈæm.bʊʃ/
noun:
- 1. a surprise attack by people lying in wait in a concealed position.
- Example: The soldiers set an ambush to catch the enemy off guard.
- 2. the act of lying in wait to make a surprise attack.
- Example: The ambush was carefully planned to ensure maximum effectiveness.
verb:
- 1. to make a surprise attack on someone from a concealed position.
- Example: The rebels ambushed the government convoy as it passed through the forest.
- 2. to attack unexpectedly.
- Example: They ambushed their rival during a moment of distraction.
Etymology
Middle English 'ambuschen', from Old French 'embuschier' (to place in a bush), from 'busche' (bush).
Common Phrases and Expressions
laid an ambush:
to secretly prepare to attack someone or something.
ambush marketing:
a marketing strategy where a company tries to capitalize on the visibility of a major event without paying sponsorship fees.
ambush tactics:
strategies used to surprise the enemy or opponent.
Related Words
ambusher:
A person who ambushes; one who launches a surprise attack.
ambushing:
The act of making a surprise attack.
Slang Meanings of ambush
Meaning: To catch someone off guard.
Example Sentence: He ambushed me with that question out of nowhere.
Meaning: To trap someone in a difficult situation.
Example Sentence: The meeting felt like an ambush when they raised all those issues.