Entry Word: attack

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 the act or action of setting upon with force or violence <The USS Constitution was nicknamed “Old Ironsides” after its oaken hull successfully withstood a British attack>

Synonyms aggression, assault, blitzkrieg, charge, descent, offense (or offence), offensive, onset, onslaught, raid, rush, strike

Related Words ambuscade, ambush; counterattack, counteroffensive, sally, sortie; foray, incursion, invasion; pillage, ravage, sack; air raid, blitz, bombardment; siege, storm

Near Antonyms defense, defensive, guard, shield; opposition, resistance; protection, security, shelter

2 a sudden experiencing of a physical or mental disorder <malaria is characterized by periodic attacks of chills and fever>

Synonyms bout, case, fit, seizure, siege, spell

Related Words recurrence, relapse; brainstorm, convulsion, pang, paroxysm, spasm, throe; breakdown, collapse, prostration

Near Antonyms arrest, relief, remission