FLANK Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

flank 1 of 2

noun

ˈflaŋk

Definition of flank next

as in side

a place, space, or direction away from or beyond a central point or line painted the name of the ship along its flank

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

flank

2 of 2

verb

as in to join

to be adjacent to the guards flank the center on a football team's offensive line

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of flank

Noun

Will scientists ever be able to say that a week from now, a certain volcano has an 80% chance of erupting in a particular way — with lava gushing, with a certain explosive force, with pyroclastic flows that will travel down its western flank? —

Quanta Magazine, 8 May 2026 In the minutes, hours and days following Saturday’s interrupted White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, Americans were inundated by falsehoods and conspiracy theories from nearly every flank. —

Jane Lytvynenko, NBC news, 3 May 2026

Verb

In a romantic nod to Princess Margaret's middle name, Rose, Antony Armstrong-Jones presented his princess with a three-ruby ring, flanked by six smaller diamonds meant to mimic a rosebud, according to Brides. —

Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 7 May 2026 The three-time All-American is flanked by 2006 All-Americans Troy Smith and Quinn Pitcock. —

Cameron Teague Robinson, New York Times, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for flank

Recent Examples of Synonyms for flank

Noun

At the most recent debate, hosted by NBC4 and Telemundo 52 on May 6, the seven candidates again clashed over housing and immigration, while Becerra and Steyer faced fierce attacks from both sides of the political spectrum, The Los Angeles Times reported.

— James Ward, USA Today, 15 May 2026
These are two elite teams led by masterminds on opposite sides of the ball in Kyle Shanahan and Mike Macdonald.

— Saad Yousuf, New York Times, 15 May 2026