Ambuscade Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ambuscade
[ˈæm.bə.skeɪd ]
Definition
hidden attack
An ambuscade is a military strategy in which troops lie in wait for the enemy, hidden from view, in order to launch a surprise attack when the enemy passes by. Ambuscades are often set up in dense forests or behind obstacles to maximize the element of surprise.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ambuscade |
This is a slightly archaic and formal term primarily used in literary or historical contexts to describe a hidden place from which attackers launch an attack.
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| ambush |
A term commonly used in everyday language to describe a surprise attack from a concealed position, often in a military or tactical scenario.
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| trap |
A general term used to describe any device or setup intended to catch someone or something, often implying an element of deception or danger.
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| snare |
Often used to describe a trap set to catch animals, but can also metaphorically describe a situation designed to entangle or deceive someone.
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Examples of usage
- The soldiers set up an ambuscade along the narrow path, waiting for the enemy to approach.
- The rebels planned an ambuscade near the bridge to ambush the convoy of trucks.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Ambuscades were commonly used in warfare to gain tactical advantage over enemies.
- Famous battles in history often involved ambuscades; one instance is the Battle of Trenton during the American Revolutionary War.
- In ancient times, ambuscades were critical in strategies used by tribes and armies across the globe.
Literature
- Ambuscade appears in various stories to represent betrayal or surprise, like in Shakespeare's works.
- In modern literature, ambuscade can symbolize sudden revelations or unexpected outcomes in plot twists.
Psychology
- The element of surprise can trigger strong emotional responses like fear or excitement.
- Ambush tactics in games or military training offer insights into human behavior under pressure.
Pop Culture
- In video games, ambuscade is a common strategy used by players for competitive advantage.
- Movies often depict ambuscades as thrilling moments, enhancing tension and drama in action sequences.
Origin of 'ambuscade'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'ambuscada,' meaning 'a place for lying in wait.'
- It entered the English language in the late 16th century, emphasizing the element of surprise in attacks.
The word 'ambuscade' originated in the late 16th century from Middle French 'embuscade', which came from Italian 'imboscata'. The Italian term derived from 'imboscare', meaning 'to place in ambush', which ultimately traces back to the Latin 'in- + bosco', meaning 'in the woods'. Over the centuries, 'ambuscade' has been used to describe surprise attacks and hidden traps in military and non-military contexts.