Airstrike: meaning, definitions and examples

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airstrike

 

[ ˈɛəˌstraɪk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

military attack

An airstrike is an attack carried out by aircraft dropping bombs or firing missiles from the air.

Synonyms

aerial attack, air raid, bombing.

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Word Description / Examples
airstrike

Used in military or strategic discussions to refer to an attack from the air using aircrafts or other aerial vehicles. This term is often neutral and technical.

  • The commander ordered an airstrike on the enemy positions.
  • The city was subjected to an airstrike last night.
bombing

Refers to the action of dropping bombs from aircraft. This word can have negative connotations and is often used when discussing the destruction and casualties caused by such attacks.

  • The historic building was destroyed in the bombing.
  • The bombing of the village resulted in many casualties.
air raid

Implies a more intensive, often prolonged attack from the air, typically involving bombers and targeting civilian areas. This term may carry a historical or emotional connotation, referencing events like World War II.

  • The air raid forced many families to seek shelter in underground bunkers.
  • An air raid siren warned the citizens of the impending danger.
aerial attack

Often used in more general contexts related to any type of attack from the air, including by aircraft, drones, and missiles. It is also a technical term but can be used in broader discussions.

  • The aerial attack severely damaged the infrastructure of the city.
  • There have been reports of an aerial attack in the region.

Examples of usage

  • The enemy launched an airstrike on the military base.
  • The airstrike caused significant damage to the infrastructure.
  • The civilians were evacuated before the airstrike hit the area.

Translations

Translations of the word "airstrike" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ataque aéreo

🇮🇳 हवाई हमला

🇩🇪 Luftangriff

🇮🇩 serangan udara

🇺🇦 авіаудар

🇵🇱 nalot

🇯🇵 空襲

🇫🇷 frappe aérienne

🇪🇸 ataque aéreo

🇹🇷 hava saldırısı

🇰🇷 공습

🇸🇦 غارة جوية

🇨🇿 letecký útok

🇸🇰 letecký útok

🇨🇳 空袭

🇸🇮 letalni napad

🇮🇸 loftárás

🇰🇿 әуе шабуылы

🇬🇪 საჰაერო დარტყმა

🇦🇿 hava hücumu

🇲🇽 ataque aéreo

Etymology

The term 'airstrike' originated in the early 20th century with the advent of military aviation. It became a common tactic during World War I and has since been a key element of modern warfare. Airstrikes have evolved with technological advancements, becoming more precise and powerful over time.

See also: air, airborne, aircraft, airdrop, airfield, airflow, airfoil, airiness, airing, airline, airman, airplane, airs, airship, airspace, airstrip, airtight, airway, airy.