n. & v.
--n.
1. a violent physical or verbal attack.
2 a Law an act that threatens physical harm to a person (whether or not actual harm is done). b euphem. an act of rape.
3 (attrib.) relating to or used in an assault ( assault craft; assault troops).
4 a vigorous start made to a lengthy or difficult task.
5 a final rush on a fortified place, esp. at the end of a prolonged attack.
--v.tr.
1. make an assault on.
2 euphem. rape.
Phrases and idioms:
assault and battery Law a threatening act that results in physical harm done to a person. assault course an obstacle course used in training soldiers etc.
Derivatives:
assaulter n. assaultive adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF asaut, assauter ult. f. L (salire salt- leap)