Meaning & Definition of word "Ambush"

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.