Enfilade: meaning, definitions and examples

military formation

An enfilade refers to a military tactic where troops or artillery are positioned to fire along the length of an enemy formation, maximizing their effectiveness by targeting the side of the enemy ranks. This allows for a more devastating impact on the enemy's forces as they are less capable of defending against a flank attack. Enfilade fire is particularly effective in open terrain where lines of sight can be maintained. Understanding enfilade tactics is essential for both offensive and defensive military strategy.

crossfire, flank attack, side fire

Examples of usage

• The general ordered an enfilade to take advantage of the enemy's vulnerable position.

• The troops were arranged in an enfilade formation to maximize their firepower.

• During the battle, the enfilade fire caused heavy losses to the advancing enemy.