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Attacked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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attacked

[əˈtækt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action, physical assault

The term 'attacked' refers to the act of using aggressive force against someone or something. This can involve physical violence, verbal confrontations, or other forms of aggression. In legal contexts, it typically describes acts that cause harm or threaten safety. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe severe criticism or harsh treatment of an idea or institution.

Synonyms

accosted, assailed, assaulted, besieged, charged.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier was attacked during the battle.
  • She felt attacked by his harsh words.
  • The company was attacked for its unethical practices.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In human behavior, attacks can often stem from underlying fear or insecurity rather than pure aggression.
  • Studies show that individuals who feel threatened are more likely to react with an attack response, indicating survival instincts.
  • Verbal attacks can leave lasting emotional scars, sometimes as serious as those from physical harm.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, characters often experience an attack as a turning point, whether it's a surprise or a planned confrontation.
  • Many video games use the concept of attacking as a core mechanic, requiring strategy to defeat enemies.
  • Historical dramas often depict battles where characters are attacked, highlighting the struggles and victories of their time.

Literature

  • Classic literature often details 'attacked' moments, signifying conflict; for example, in Shakespeare's plays, words can be as sharp as swords.
  • Modern novels utilize the theme of attack to explore deeper social issues, reflecting the psychological battles characters face.
  • Poetry frequently conveys emotional attacks, using imagery to express pain and resilience.

Origin of 'attacked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'attaccare', meaning 'to attach', reflecting the idea of joining a battle.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'atak' by blending influences from various languages, particularly Old French.
  • The shift in meaning over time has led 'attacked' to encompass both physical and verbal harm.

The word 'attack' comes from the Middle French word 'attaquer', which means 'to touch or to lay hands on'. This French term emerged in the late 15th century and is derived from the Latin word 'attaccare', which means 'to attach or to affect'. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify a more aggressive intention, specifically the act of using violence or force against someone. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the word expanded its usage in both military and figurative contexts, denoting not only physical assaults but also criticisms in discussions and debates. By the 17th century, the concept of an attack became applicable to various domains, including legal disputes and personal confrontations, solidifying its position in the English lexicon.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,541, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.