To attack someone violently or criticize someone strongly Believe it or not, assail evolved from the ancient latin word assilire, which means to jump on. To cause someone to experience a…
When assail was first used in the 13th century, it meant to make a violent physical attack upon. by the early 15th century, english speakers were using the term to mean to attack with words or arguments. To assail is to attack or assault — with throwing stars, fists, words or, less tangibly but just as violently, with troubles or doubts Our ears were assailed by her joyous efforts on her new saxophone.
To attack with arguments, criticism, ridicule, abuse, etc. To assail one's opponent with slander. Dividing his command, morgan assailed both strongholds at the same time [verb noun] if you are assailed by something unpleasant such as fears or problems, you are greatly troubled by a large number of them.
Assail (əˈseɪl) vb (tr) 1 To criticize or ridicule vehemently, as in argument Definition of assail verb in oxford advanced learner's dictionary Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
To assail one's opponent with slander To undertake with the purpose of mastering He assailed his studies with new determination.
