assault

IPA

Dictionary definition of assault

A physical attack or act of violence carried out against another person.
"The victim filed a police report immediately after the assault occurred."

Detailed meaning of assault

It involves intentional and unlawful force, threat, or harmful contact inflicted upon someone without their consent. Assault can encompass a wide range of actions, varying in severity from minor physical altercations to more severe acts causing significant bodily harm or injury. It can involve striking, hitting, or physically overpowering another individual, or it may also involve the threat of imminent harm that creates a reasonable fear of physical injury. Assault can occur in different contexts, including domestic violence, street altercations, or even in organized settings. It is a serious offense under the law, and individuals who commit assault can face legal consequences and criminal charges. It is important to differentiate assault from related terms like battery, which typically refers to the actual physical contact or offensive touching that follows an assault.

Example sentences containing assault

1. The victim suffered severe injuries as a result of the brutal assault.
2. The police arrested the suspect for committing a vicious assault on a bystander.
3. The survivor of the assault showed immense courage in sharing their story.
4. The community organized a protest against the rising incidents of assault in the area.
5. The court handed down a sentence of imprisonment for the perpetrator of the assault.
6. The counselor provided support and resources to individuals who had experienced assault.

History and etymology of assault

The noun 'assault' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin. It can be traced back to the Old French word 'assaut,' which was derived from the Latin term 'adsaltus,' a combination of 'ad-' (meaning 'to') and 'saltus' (meaning 'leap' or 'jump'). Originally, 'assault' had the sense of a sudden, aggressive physical attack, much like a forceful leap or charge towards someone. This notion of a violent attack persisted as 'assault' was incorporated into Middle English and modern English, where it came to signify a physical attack or act of violence carried out against another person. The etymology of 'assault' underscores the forceful and aggressive nature of such acts, emphasizing the swift and violent actions often associated with this word.

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Further usage examples of assault

1. The organization worked tirelessly to raise awareness about sexual assault and provide education on prevention.
2. The news highlighted a case of assault in a crowded nightclub, prompting public outcry.
3. The survivor underwent therapy to help cope with the emotional trauma resulting from the assault.
4. The assault on the elderly man shocked the community and prompted calls for increased security measures.
5. The judge listened attentively to the testimonies of witnesses to determine the facts of the assault case.
6. He was arrested for his involvement in the assault on the victim.
7. The victim suffered injuries in the brutal assault.
8. The security camera recorded the assault in the parking lot.
9. The survivor bravely spoke out against sexual assault.
10. Authorities take every assault case seriously.
11. The neighborhood was shocked by the random assault.
12. The bar brawl resulted in multiple assault charges.
13. Witnesses testified in court about the assault they had seen.
14. She pressed charges against her ex-partner for domestic assault.
15. The assault left him with a broken nose and black eye.
16. The police launched an investigation into the assault.
17. He was sentenced to prison for his role in the assault.
18. The victim sought therapy to cope with the trauma of the assault.
19. The suspect was apprehended shortly after the assault.
20. The community rallied against hate crimes and assault.
21. The news reported a rise in street assaults in the city.
22. The security guard intervened to prevent the assault.
23. The self-defense class taught women how to protect against assault.
24. He was accused of attempted assault with a deadly weapon.
25. The victim's family demanded justice for the assault.