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

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.