Flanking: meaning, definitions and examples

⚔️
Add to dictionary

flanking

 

[ ˈflæŋkɪŋ ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

military strategy

Flanking refers to the tactical movement of forces to the side of an enemy position to gain a more advantageous position in combat. It is often employed to surprise or outmaneuver the opposition. By attacking from the side, a force can avoid direct confrontations with fortified fronts while potentially causing disarray in the enemy's ranks. Flanking can be a decisive factor in the outcome of battles and is a crucial element of military strategy that has been used throughout history.

Synonyms

ambush, outflank, surround

Examples of usage

  • The infantry began flanking the enemy’s position.
  • In the battle, the general ordered his troops to flank the opposing forces.
  • Flanking maneuvers are essential in asymmetrical warfare.
Context #2 | Noun

military tactic

Flanking is a tactical maneuver that involves attacking an enemy from the sides rather than from the front. This approach can destabilize an enemy's formation and give the attacking force a strategic advantage. Flanking maneuvers often lead to a more effective engagement in combat by exploiting weaknesses in the enemy's defenses. Historically, flanking has been used in various conflicts to turn the tide of battle.

Synonyms

encirclement, side attack, tactical diversion

Examples of usage

  • The flanking strategy proved effective in the nearby campaign.
  • They executed a perfect flanking operation during the exercise.
  • His plan included a decisive flanking maneuver.

Translations

Translations of the word "flanking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 flanqueando

🇮🇳 फ्लैंकिंग

🇩🇪 Flankierung

🇮🇩 penyampingan

🇺🇦 флангування

🇵🇱 flankowanie

🇯🇵 側面攻撃

🇫🇷 flanquement

🇪🇸 flanqueo

🇹🇷 flanklama

🇰🇷 측면 공격

🇸🇦 الهجوم الجانبي

🇨🇿 flankování

🇸🇰 flankovanie

🇨🇳 侧翼攻击

🇸🇮 flankiranje

🇮🇸 flankun

🇰🇿 фланктау

🇬🇪 ფლანკირება

🇦🇿 flanklama

🇲🇽 flanqueo

Word origin

The term 'flanking' originates from the word 'flank,' which is derived from the Old French 'flanc,' meaning 'side,' and from the Latin 'flancos' which conveys a similar meaning. The use of flanking as a military maneuver dates back to ancient warfare where armies sought to outmaneuver their opponents by attacking the sides of enemy formations. Throughout history, notable generals like Sun Tzu and Napoleon have emphasized the importance of flanking in their military strategies. The concept of flanking has also transitioned into various fields, including sports and business tactics, symbolizing a strategy to gain advantage through indirect approaches.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,336, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.