Definition of flank
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: the fleshy part of the side between the ribs and the hip
broadly
: the side of a quadruped
She gently patted the horse's flank.
b
: a cut of meat from this part of an animal — see beef illustration
2a
: side
the eastern flank of a volcano
b
: the right or left of a formation
attacked the enemy on both flanks
3
: the area along either side of a heraldic shield
flank
verb
flanked; flanking; flanks
Definition of flank (Entry 2 of 2)
1a
: 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)
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for flank
The first known use of flank was before the 12th century
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