Attacker: meaning, definitions and examples

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attacker

[əˈtækər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

security

A person or thing that attacks someone or something, especially a person who uses violence or threats to achieve a goal.

Synonyms

aggressor, assailant, assaulter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
attacker	General term for someone who physically attacks someone else. It can be used in various situations, including both planned and spontaneous acts. The police are still searching for the attacker He managed to fend off his attacker and escape
assailant	A formal term used to describe someone who physically attacks another person. Often used in news reports and legal contexts. The assailant was arrested shortly after the incident She pointed out her assailant in the lineup
aggressor	Refers to someone who initiates conflict, be it physical, verbal, or even at the level of nations. Often implies a broader or more deliberate act of hostility. In the argument, he was clearly the aggressor Historically, this country has been labeled as an aggressor in several conflicts
assaulter	Specifically refers to someone who has committed an assault. Commonly used in legal and formal contexts, but less frequently in everyday conversation. The court found him guilty of being the assaulter He was labeled an assaulter after multiple complaints

Examples of usage

The attacker broke into the victim's house.
The cyber attacker stole sensitive data from the company's servers.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

A player or team that attempts to score points or goals.

Synonyms

forward, offensive player, striker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
attacker	General term for a player who takes part in offensive actions. Typically used in discussions about game strategies or roles. The team needs a new attacker to improve their offensive play. As an attacker, his primary role is to score goals.
forward	Commonly used in describing the position of a player in sports like soccer or hockey. Refers to players who are ahead in the formation, usually aiming to score. The forward positioned himself well to receive the pass. She plays as a forward and is known for her speed.
striker	A specific position in soccer, referring to a player whose main role is to score goals. This term is frequently used in commentary and fan discussions. The striker scored a hat-trick in the match. Every team needs a reliable striker to finish the attack.
offensive player	A more descriptive term defining players who focus primarily on attacking or scoring, often used in both sport analysis and coaching strategies. In this game, the coach decided to add another offensive player. Their offensive players showed great coordination and skill.

Examples of usage

The soccer team's attacker scored a hat trick in the match.
The basketball attacker led the team to victory with his impressive shooting.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word 'attaquer', meaning 'to attack', which has roots in Latin 'attaccare'.
The prefix 'at-' indicates direction towards, combined with 'tack' meaning to make a movement against someone.

Cybersecurity

In the digital world, an attacker can refer to individuals or groups who attempt to breach computer systems for data theft.
Common methods include phishing, malware, and ransomware to compromise data integrity.
Cyber attackers often target vulnerabilities in software and networks to gain unauthorized access.

Sports

In sports like soccer, an attacker refers to players whose primary role is to score points or goals.
Attacking strategies are essential for success, focused on outmaneuvering the opponent’s defense.
The attacker is crucial in a team dynamic, often creating exciting moments during games.

Psychology

Aggressive behavior, such as an attack, can result from various psychological factors including frustration or provocation.
Research shows that many attackers may have experienced trauma or adverse effects in their early lives.
Understanding the motivations behind an attack can be key to prevention and rehabilitation.

Conflict Studies

The role of an attacker in conflicts can shape narratives, influencing perceptions of good and evil.
Historical accounts often portray attackers in various lights, depending on outcomes and perspectives of the events.
In peace negotiations, understanding the dynamics between attackers and victims is essential for resolution.

Translations

Translations of the word "attacker" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atacante

🇮🇳 आक्रामक

🇩🇪 Angreifer

🇮🇩 penyerang

🇺🇦 нападник

🇵🇱 napastnik

🇯🇵 攻撃者 (こうげきしゃ)

🇫🇷 attaquant

🇪🇸 atacante

🇹🇷 saldırgan

🇰🇷 공격자 (gong-gyeokja)

🇸🇦 مهاجم (muhajim)

🇨🇿 útočník

🇸🇰 útočník

🇨🇳 攻击者 (gōngjí zhě)

🇸🇮 napadalec

🇮🇸 árásarmaður

🇰🇿 шабуылшы

🇬🇪 თავდამსხმელი (t'avdamskhmeli)

🇦🇿 hücumçu

🇲🇽 atacante

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,435, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16432 pollination
16433 propane
16434 chlorinated
16435 attacker
16436 finder
16437 howl
16438 thwart
...