Raided: meaning, definitions and examples

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raided

 

[ ˈreΙͺ.dΙͺd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

criminal activity

The term 'raided' refers to the act of conducting a sudden and violent attack on a place, often with the intent to loot or to capture. It is commonly used in legal terminology to describe law enforcement operations that involve entering a property without prior warning to apprehend suspects or seize illegal items. Raids can also be executed by criminal groups to intimidate or extract resources from rival groups. This term is often associated with a sense of urgency and aggression.

Synonyms

assaulted, attacked, invaded

Examples of usage

  • The police raided the house last night.
  • The pirates raided the coastal village.
  • They raided the warehouse to recover stolen goods.
Context #2 | Verb

military operation

In a military context, 'raided' signifies a quick and surprise attack against enemy positions. These operations are generally intended to disrupt the enemy's activities, gather intelligence, or capture key resources. Raids can vary in scale from small teams executing covert operations to larger units conducting significant assaults. They are characterized by their speed and decisiveness, aiming to achieve specific strategic objectives.

Synonyms

assaulted, stormed, struck

Examples of usage

  • The special forces raided the enemy base.
  • They raided the insurgents' hideout.
  • The troops raided key locations to gather intelligence.

Word origin

The word 'raid' originates from the Middle English word 'raiden', which comes from the Old Norse 'reiΓ°a', meaning 'to ride'. This term reflects the historical context of cavalry and mounted troops who would quickly strike at targets and retreat without engaging in prolonged conflict. Over time, the meaning of 'raid' has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of surprise attacks, including both military operations and unlawful acts such as burglaries. The versatility of the term allows it to be applied in various scenarios from military tactics to criminal undertakings, illustrating its deep-rooted connection to the concept of surprise and sudden action.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,999, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.