The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

assailant

IPA:

Dictionary definition of assailant

A person who attacks or assaults another person physically, verbally, or emotionally.
"The victim was able to identify their assailant in a police lineup."

Detailed meaning of assailant

An assailant can be anyone who poses a threat to the safety, well-being, or peace of mind of another individual. An assailant can be a stranger, an acquaintance, or even someone close to the victim, such as a family member or friend. The term "assailant" is often used in legal and criminal contexts, such as in cases of assault or domestic violence. An assailant can use physical force, weapons, or intimidation to carry out their attack, and they may have a variety of motives for their actions, such as anger, jealousy, or a desire for control or power. The term "assailant" is also sometimes used in a more metaphorical sense to describe anything or anyone that poses a threat or challenge to a particular individual or group.

Example sentences containing assailant

1. The assailant fled the scene before the police arrived.
2. The victim bravely identified her assailant in court.
3. The security guard apprehended the assailant at the mall.
4. The assailant's motive for the attack remained unclear.
5. The victim pressed charges against her assailant.
6. The eyewitnesses helped identify the assailant to the authorities.

History and etymology of assailant

The noun 'assailant' has its etymology rooted in Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Old French word 'assalant,' which means 'assailing' or 'attacking,' and this Old French term is influenced by the Latin word 'assilire,' which means 'to leap on' or 'to attack.' 'Assailant' entered the English language in the 15th century and is used to describe a person who attacks or assaults another person physically, verbally, or emotionally. Its etymology underscores the aggressive and confrontational nature of such individuals, reflecting the Latin and Old French origins in leaping upon or attacking others, emphasizing the active role of the assailant in initiating hostile actions.

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Further usage examples of assailant

1. The detective was determined to find the assailant.
2. The victim showed remarkable courage in facing her assailant.
3. The assailant was swiftly arrested and taken into custody.
4. The community rallied in support of the victim and against the assailant.
5. The courtroom was filled with tension as the victim confronted her assailant.
6. The assailant was found guilty and sentenced to prison.
7. The survivor underwent therapy to heal from the trauma caused by the assailant.
8. The assailant's sudden attack shocked the neighborhood.
9. The victim was determined to seek justice against her assailant.
10. The assailant's violent actions left a lasting impact on the victim.
11. The police issued a warrant for the arrest of the assailant.
12. The community organized self-defense classes to protect against potential assailants.
13. The victim's courage inspired others to speak out against their assailants.
14. The assailant's actions were condemned by society as a whole.
15. The court ordered the assailant to pay restitution to the victim.
16. The assailant's identity remained a mystery until a tip led to their arrest.
17. The victim's testimony helped secure the conviction of her assailant.
18. The assailant's aggressive behavior was a cause for concern among neighbors.
19. The survivor's strength in overcoming her assailant was truly commendabl