Search results for 'attack':

attack verb (attacked, attacking) 1 to make a sudden violent attempt to hurt, damage or capture. 2 to criticize strongly in speech or writing. 3 intrans to make an attack. 4 to begin to do something with enthusiasm or determination. 5 to begin to damage • Plaque attacks the teeth. 6 intrans to take the initiative in a game, contest, etc to attempt to score a goal, points, etc. noun 1 an act or the action of attacking. 2 a sudden spell of illness • an attack of 'flu. 3 (the attack) the players, eg the strikers, forwards, etc in a team sport whose job is to score goals, points, etc. Compare the defence at defence 7, the midfield at midfield 2. attackable adj. attacker noun someone who makes a physical, verbal, sporting, etc attack. to be on the attack sport to take up an offensive position.
ETYMOLOGY: 17c: from Italian attaccare.