Onslaught - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An onslaught is a fierce or violent attack, either physical or verbal. It can also refer to an overwhelming quantity or intensity of something, such as criticism or demands.
Definition:
A fierce or destructive attack, often sudden and overwhelming.
Synonyms:
assault, attack, barrage, offensive, invasion
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
defense, retreat
Common Collocations:
sudden onslaught, verbal onslaught, military onslaught, relentless onslaught, fierce onslaught
Derivatives:
onslaughts (plural), onslaughting (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "onslaught" to describe a powerful attack or overwhelming force, whether physical or metaphorical.
Common Phrases:
face an onslaught, under the onslaught of, relentless onslaught
Etymology:
From Dutch "aanslag," meaning "attack," combining "aan" (on) + "slag" (blow).
Examples:
- 1. The army faced a brutal onslaught from enemy forces.
- 2. The town was unprepared for the sudden onslaught of winter storms.
- 3. Critics launched an onslaught against the controversial new policy.
- 4. Her speech provoked an onslaught of angry responses online.
- 5. The team struggled under the relentless onslaught of questions from reporters.