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Strafed: meaning, definitions and examples

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strafed

 

[ streɪfd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

military action

To strafe means to attack ground targets from an aircraft with machine guns or cannon fire. This term is particularly associated with military aerial assaults, where planes make low-level passes to deliver fire on enemy troops or installations. Strafing is often used to disrupt the enemy's movements and to provide support to ground forces during combat. It became a common tactic during World War I and II, as aircraft technology advanced and the need for effective close air support grew.

Synonyms

assault, attack, bombard

Examples of usage

  • The fighter jets strafed the enemy positions.
  • During the battle, the squadron strafed the advancing infantry.
  • The helicopter performed a strafing run to provide cover for the troops.
  • He recalled how the aircraft strafed the target with precision fire.

Translations

Translations of the word "strafed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atirado

🇮🇳 गोलीबारी किया गया

🇩🇪 beschossen

🇮🇩 ditembak

🇺🇦 обстріляний

🇵🇱 ostrzelany

🇯🇵 銃撃された

🇫🇷 mitraillé

🇪🇸 rafagueado

🇹🇷 ateş altına alınmış

🇰🇷 사격당한

🇸🇦 أُطلق عليه النار

🇨🇿 ostřelovaný

🇸🇰 ostreľovaný

🇨🇳 被射击

🇸🇮 ustreljen

🇮🇸 skotinn

🇰🇿 атылған

🇬🇪 სროლა

🇦🇿 atəşə tutulmuş

🇲🇽 rafagueado

Word origin

The term 'strafe' originates from the German word 'strafen,' which means 'to punish' or 'to chastise.' The word was adopted into English during World War I, particularly as aerial combat became more prominent. Aircraft were increasingly used not just for reconnaissance but also for direct assault on enemy positions. As a result, the act of attacking ground troops or vehicles from the air became referred to as strafing. The practice gained notoriety in World War II, where it was employed extensively by allied forces against Axis troops. Over the years, 'strafe' has maintained its military connotation while also being used in broader contexts to describe aggressive actions from a safe distance.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,980 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.