Broadside: meaning, definitions and examples

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broadside

 

[ˈbrɔːdsaɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

attack, criticism

A broadside is a strong verbal or written attack against someone or something, often used in a political context. It can also refer to a published notice or advertisement in a newspaper or on a poster.

Synonyms

assault, attack, barrage, criticism.

Examples of usage

  • The politician launched a broadside against his opponent.
  • She issued a broadside that criticized the new policy.
  • The newspaper published a broadside detailing the scandal.
Context #2 | Noun

naval warfare

In naval terminology, a broadside refers to the simultaneous firing of all the guns on one side of a warship. This tactic was especially prominent in the age of sail, where ships would maneuver to expose their broadside to the enemy.

Synonyms

fusillade, gunfire, salvo.

Examples of usage

  • The ship delivered a devastating broadside to the enemy fleet.
  • During the battle, both ships exchanged broadsides.
  • The captain ordered a broadside to be fired at dawn.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originated from the naval world, referring to the side of a ship where cannons were fired.
  • It comes from two words: 'broad,' meaning wide, and 'side,' meaning the lateral part of an object.
  • The term began being used for printed materials in the 18th century, especially in relation to political pamphlets.

History

  • Broadside ballads were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, telling stories of love, tragedy, and news.
  • In the United States, broadsides played key roles in the American Revolution, allowing rebels to share news and rally support.
  • The use of broadsides helped spread information quickly before the advent of modern newspapers.

Art and Literature

  • Broadside prints often featured large illustrations, making them appealing and easier to notice.
  • In literature, several famous poems were initially published as broadsides, gaining popularity by being sung during events.
  • The combination of visual art and text in broadsides reflects cultural trends and societal issues of the time.

Communication

  • Broadsides have adapted to modern media, functioning as digital posters or social media graphics to convey information.
  • Though primarily one-sided, contemporary broadsides can also be used as marketing tools for events or political campaigns.
  • They are a fast way to get information to the public, similar to flyers but larger and often more impactful.

Pop Culture

  • Broadside is referenced in various historical movies portraying naval battles, emphasizing its connection to warfare.
  • In the digital age, broadsides have transformed into viral memes, using similar large, eye-catching graphics to spread messages.
  • Famous historical figures, including poets and politicians, have used broadsides to promote ideas, showcasing their long-lasting influence.

Translations

Translations of the word "broadside" in other languages:

🇵🇹 broadside

🇮🇳 ब्रोडसाइड

🇩🇪 Breitseitenangriff

🇮🇩 sisi lebar

🇺🇦 бортовий залп

🇵🇱 broadside

🇯🇵 横撃

🇫🇷 flanc

🇪🇸 broadside

🇹🇷 broadside

🇰🇷 측면 공격

🇸🇦 نيران جانبية

🇨🇿 broadside

🇸🇰 broadside

🇨🇳 侧火

🇸🇮 broadside

🇮🇸 hliðarskot

🇰🇿 борттық соққы

🇬🇪 ბორდვაიდ

🇦🇿 yan tərəf

🇲🇽 broadside

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,409, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.