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Enfilade Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enfilade

[หŒษ›n.fษชหˆleษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

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.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Military Tactics

  • Enfilade fire refers to a type of gunfire directed along the length of a target, maximizing its effectiveness.
  • This method increases the damage inflicted on enemy forces who are caught in the line of fire, especially if they are in a linear formation.
  • The use of enfilade in battlefield strategy has been a key component in many significant military engagements throughout history.

Architecture

  • Enfilade layouts are common in palatial and grand mansion designs, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
  • Famous examples include the Palace of Versailles, where rooms are aligned for impressive views and spaciousness.
  • This architectural feature allows for natural light to travel through multiple spaces, creating a harmonious flow.

Art and Design

  • In interior design, an enfilade can create a sense of openness and connection between different areas of a home.
  • Artists have portrayed enfilade perspectives in visual art to evoke a feeling of depth and continuity in their works.
  • The concept has influenced the layout of various museum galleries, where aligned displays enhance the visitor experience.

Historical Significance

  • Notable battle strategies employing enfilade fire include the Battle of Gettysburg, highlighting its importance in warfare history.
  • Architectural enfilades became popular during the Age of Enlightenment as a reflection of order and symmetry in design.
  • The spread of the concept into various fields illustrates its versatility and enduring relevance across cultures and eras.

Origin of 'enfilade'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'enfilade' is derived from the French word 'enfiler,' meaning 'to thread' or 'to line up.'
  • It has been used in military contexts since the 18th century to describe a strategy of firing along the length of the enemy's line.
  • In architecture, the concept is first noted in 18th-century designs, where rooms were aligned to allow a clear view and airflow.

The term 'enfilade' comes from the French word 'enfiler', which means 'to thread' or 'to pass through'. It was first used in a military context in the 18th century to describe the arrangement of troops in a line that enabled them to deliver fire along the length of an enemy position, providing a substantial tactical advantage. The concept has its roots in early modern warfare, when linear formations were common, and advancing infantry was susceptible to concentrated fire from the flanks. Over time, the term has evolved and is now used in military strategy and historical discussions, emphasizing the importance of positioning and firing angles in battle.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,017, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.