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Enfilading: meaning, definitions and examples

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enfilading

 

[ˌɛn.fɪˈleɪ.dɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

military strategy

Enfilading refers to a tactical maneuver in military operations where forces attack the flank of an enemy position. This technique is particularly effective because it allows for maximum damage to be inflicted on the enemy while minimizing exposure to direct fire. By striking from the side, attackers can exploit vulnerabilities that are often less defended. Enfilading fire can significantly disrupt enemy formations and morale, providing a strategic advantage in combat scenarios.

Synonyms

attacking, flanking, surrounding.

Examples of usage

  • The troops executed an enfilading maneuver to surprise the enemy.
  • Artillery units provided enfilading fire to cover the advancing infantry.
  • Using enfilading positions, the general successfully outflanked the opposing forces.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'enfilade' comes from the French word meaning 'to do with a line' and is used historically in military language.
  • Originally, it described a way of arranging cannon fire in a straight line, aiming to hit the maximum number of enemy soldiers.
  • The modern military context emphasizes the tactical advantage gained through positioning and angles.

Military Strategy

  • This tactic is often used in trench warfare, where soldiers can deliver fire while remaining partially hidden.
  • Proper execution requires careful coordination and communication among troops to avoid friendly fire.
  • By creating a crossfire zone, this method significantly increases the effectiveness of limiting enemy movements.

Historical Examples

  • The Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War showcased enfilading fire, impacting the outcome significantly.
  • In World War I, trench warfare heavily relied on this tactic, changing the dynamics of battlefield engagements.
  • Notable generals have studied historical battles where enfilading led to decisive victories or tragic defeats.

Psychological Impact

  • Facing enfilading fire can create fear and chaos among enemy troops, impacting their morale and effectiveness.
  • The sudden realization of being under enfilading attack can lead to increased panic and hasten retreat.
  • Understanding this tactic is crucial in the training of soldiers to prepare for various combat scenarios.

Pop Culture

  • Movies depicting military battles often showcase enfilading tactics to heighten tension and drama.
  • Video games, especially strategy-based ones, feature enfilading fire as a key component of combat strategy.
  • Books about military history frequently analyze famous battles and discuss the significance of enfilading maneuvers.

Translations

Translations of the word "enfilading" in other languages:

🇵🇹 flanqueamento

🇮🇳 संरेखण

🇩🇪 Einrücken

🇮🇩 penyerangan menyilang

🇺🇦 флангування

🇵🇱 flankowanie

🇯🇵 側撃

🇫🇷 enfilade

🇪🇸 flanqueo

🇹🇷 yan saldırı

🇰🇷 측면 공격

🇸🇦 الهجوم الجانبي

🇨🇿 flankování

🇸🇰 flankovanie

🇨🇳 侧击

🇸🇮 flankiranje

🇮🇸 hliðarslag

🇰🇿 флангтық шабуыл

🇬🇪 ფლანგური თავდასხმა

🇦🇿 yan hücum

🇲🇽 ataque de flanco

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,380, 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.