flank
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1flank
noun \ˈflaŋk\Definition of FLANK
1
a : the fleshy part of the side between the ribs and the hip; broadly : the side of a quadruped b : a cut of meat from this part of an animal — see beef illustration
2
a : side b : the right or left of a formation
3
: the area along either side of a heraldic shield
See Examples of FLANK
- She gently patted the horse's flank.
- They attacked the enemy on both flanks.
- the eastern flank of a volcano
Origin of FLANK
Middle English, from Old French flanc, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German hlanca loin, flank — more at lank
First Known Use: before 12th century
Other Anatomy Terms
2flank
transitive verbDefinition of FLANK
1
a : to be situated at the side of; especially : to be situated on both sides of <a road flanked with linden trees> b : to place something on each side of
2
: to protect a flank of
3
: to attack or threaten the flank of (as a body of troops)
Examples of FLANK
- <the tackles flank the center on a football team's offensive line>
First Known Use of FLANK
1594
Related to FLANK
- Synonyms
- abut, border (on), butt (on or against), adjoin, fringe, join, march (with), neighbor, skirt, touch, verge (on)
flank
noun \ˈflaŋk\ (Medical Dictionary)Medical Definition of FLANK
: the fleshy part of the side between the ribs and the hip; broadly : the side of a quadruped
Illustration of FLANK
Learn More About FLANK
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: flank angle
Previous Word in the Dictionary: flangeway
All Words Near: flank
Previous Word in the Dictionary: flangeway
All Words Near: flank
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up flank? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
