Flank: meaning, definitions and examples
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flank
[flæŋk ]
Definitions
military term
The side of a person's or animal's body between the ribs and the hip.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flank |
Typically used to describe the sides of an animal or human body between the ribs and the hips, or the side of an object or area in military or strategic contexts.
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| side |
A general term for any location on the left or right of a central point, object, or body. It can also refer to aspects or positions in various contexts like arguments, battles, or geographic locations.
|
| hip |
Used specifically for the part of the body where the thigh meets the pelvis. Commonly mentioned in medical or anatomical contexts.
|
| rib |
Refers to the bones surrounding the chest, often used in medical contexts or when describing injuries or anatomy.
|
Examples of usage
- The bullet hit him in the flank.
- She gently scratched the horse's flank.
- The soldiers protected their flanks during the battle.
military strategy
To position oneself on the side of an enemy or opponent.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flank |
Used to describe the position or the sides of something. Often used in military or sporting contexts to denote the sides of a formation or a team.
|
| outflank |
Used mainly in military or competitive situations where you bypass the enemy or competitor to gain an advantageous position. Implies strategic superiority.
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| surround |
Used to describe being on all sides of someone or something. Can be neutral or imply being trapped, depending on context.
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| encircle |
Used to describe completely surrounding someone or something in a circular manner. Often implies trapping or enclosing.
|
Examples of usage
- The troops flanked the enemy's position.
- The team flanked the defense and scored a goal.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Derived from the Old French word 'flanc', which means 'the side'.
- Has roots in the Latin word 'latus', also meaning 'side'.
- The term has been used in military contexts since the late 14th century, describing troops stationed on the sides of the main body.
Military
- In warfare, to flank means to attack the sides of an enemy, which can lead to surprise and greater chance of victory.
- Flanking maneuvers are crucial in battles, where maneuvering around the enemy's defenses can create openings for a successful attack.
- Historically, cavalry units were often tasked with flanking the enemy forces during battles.
Anatomy
- In anatomy, the flank refers specifically to the area between the last rib and the pelvis on both sides of the body.
- Veterinarians often check the flank region in animals for signs of health or distress.
- In humans, flank pain can indicate problems in the kidneys or other internal organs.
Sports
- In football (soccer), the flank refers to the sides of the pitch where wingers operate.
- Athletes often develop specific strategies to protect their flanks during competitions, particularly in team sports.
- In wrestling or martial arts, flanking movements are key to gaining a position of advantage over an opponent.
Culinary
- Flank steak is a popular cut of beef known for its rich flavor and is typically grilled or barbecued.
- Cooking techniques for flank steak often involve marinating and slicing against the grain for tenderness.
- The term is also used to describe dishes that are served on the sides of a plate, often highlighting complementary flavors.
Translations
Translations of the word "flank" in other languages:
🇵🇹 flanco
🇮🇳 फ्लैंक
🇩🇪 Flanke
🇮🇩 sisi
🇺🇦 фланг
🇵🇱 flank
🇯🇵 側面
🇫🇷 flanc
🇪🇸 flanco
🇹🇷 kanat
🇰🇷 플랭크
🇸🇦 جانب
🇨🇿 bok
🇸🇰 bok
🇨🇳 侧翼
🇸🇮 bok
🇮🇸 hlið
🇰🇿 қанат
🇬🇪 გვერდი
🇦🇿 yan
🇲🇽 flanco