noun
assailant
uh-SAY-luhnt
Assailant (noun) means a person who physically attacks another person. Example: “Police are still searching for the assailant.”
noun
1
A person who physically attacks another person.
"Police are still searching for the assailant."
"The victim described her assailant to the officers."
How to use assailant
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who attacks another person, usually reported in a news or legal context.
When to use it
Fairly formal; commonly used in news reports and police statements rather than everyday speech, where 'attacker' is more common.
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Word forms
- Plural
- assailants
Fill the gap
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Police are still searching for the _____.
Etymology
From Old French assaillant, from a verb meaning "to attack," ultimately from Latin salire, "to jump."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for assailant
See all rhymes for assailant →Frequently asked questions
What does “assailant” mean?
The word “assailant” means a person who physically attacks another person. In plain terms, someone who attacks another person, usually reported in a news or legal context.
How do you pronounce “assailant”?
“Assailant” is pronounced uh-SAY-luhnt (/əˈseɪlənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “assailant” in a sentence?
Here is “assailant” used in a sentence: “Police are still searching for the assailant.”
What part of speech is “assailant”?
“Assailant” is a noun.
Where does the word “assailant” come from?
The word “assailant” comes from Latin. From Old French assaillant, from a verb meaning "to attack," ultimately from Latin salire, "to jump.".
