n. & v.
n. 1 a the side of the body between the ribs and the hip. b the side of an animal carved as meat (flank of beef). 2 the side of a mountain, building, etc. 3 the right or left side of an army or other body of persons.
v.tr. 1 (often in passive) be situated at both sides of (a road flanked by mountains). 2 Mil. a guard or strengthen on the flank. b menace the flank of. c rake with sweeping gunfire; enfilade. flank forward Rugby Football a wing forward. in flank at the side.
[ ME f. OF flanc f. Frank. ]