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Ambushed: meaning, definitions and examples

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ambushed

 

[ˈÃĶm.bʊʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military attack

To ambush means to surprise someone or a group by attacking them from a hidden position. This tactic is often employed in military operations and can also be used in a broader context to describe surprise attacks in various scenarios. The essence of an ambush is the element of surprise and strategy used to take advantage of the opponent's ignorance regarding the attack. Ambushes can take place in many environments, from urban settings to wilderness areas.

Synonyms

set-up, surprise attack, trap.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers laid in wait to ambush the enemy convoy.
  • They were ambushed by bandits while traveling through the forest.
  • The team planned to ambush their rivals during the competition.
  • He felt as if he had been ambushed by unexpected news.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old French 'ambushier' which means to hide or conceal.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'boscus', meaning a grove or thicket, signifying a place to hide.
  • The concept has been part of language since around the 14th century, relating to surprise attacks.

Military Strategy

  • Ambushing is a common tactic used in military strategy, allowing forces to catch enemies off guard.
  • Famous historical ambushes include the Battle of Teutoburg Forest, where Germanic tribes defeated Roman legions.
  • In guerrilla warfare, ambush techniques are essential for smaller groups to take on larger armies effectively.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, ambush scenes are often used in action films to heighten tension and surprise viewers, like in 'The Hurt Locker.'
  • Reality TV shows sometimes set up ambushes with unexpected twists, startling contestants and viewers alike.
  • Video games often incorporate ambush mechanics, where players must be alert to surprise attacks from enemies.

Psychology

  • Being ambushed can trigger strong emotional responses, such as fear or adrenaline rushes, altering decision-making.
  • The element of surprise in social settings can lead to increased stress or anxiety, affecting how one responds.
  • Research suggests that unpredictability in interactions can challenge social norms and prompt more cautious behavior.

Notable Literature

  • Literature often uses ambush as a plot device, symbolizing conflict and unexpected turns, seen in works like 'The Catcher in the Rye.'
  • In many adventure novels, characters get ambushed when they least expect it, leading to thrilling encounters.
  • Ambushes in literature can represent internal struggles, mirroring a character's unexpected challenges in their journey.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,960, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.