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Broadside: meaning, definitions and examples

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broadside

 

[ ˈbrɔːdsaɪd ]

Noun
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.

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

Etymology

The term 'broadside' has its origins in the early 16th century and is derived from the combination of the words 'broad' and 'side.' Initially, it was used to describe the side of a ship and its ability to fire cannons or guns positioned along that side. Prior to this nautical use, 'broad' referred to something wide or expansive. As naval warfare evolved, the term broadened to include the concept of launching an all-encompassing attack using all the weaponry on one side of a vessel effectively. Over time, 'broadside' also transitioned into political and social lexicon, referring to scathing verbal or written criticisms that are launched at individuals or policies, illustrating its versatility and adaptability in English language usage.

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.