# assail

/əˈseɪɫ/ (US) · /ɐsˈeɪl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/assail
Updated: 2026-10-08

## Definition

to attack someone or something suddenly and strongly. This can be a physical attack or a strong verbal attack, like criticizing someone's ideas.

For teachers: to attack someone or something violently or persistently, either physically or through intense verbal criticism. Often used metaphorically to describe being overwhelmed by sensory input or difficult emotions.

## Examples

- The politician was assailed by reporters as he left the building.
- As soon as she opened the door, a terrible smell assailed her nostrils, forcing her to cover her face.
- The company was assailed by a series of lawsuits and public scandals that eventually led to the resignation of its entire board of directors.

## Synonyms

assault, attack, bombard, criticize

## Antonyms

defend, protect, shield

## Usage notes

- Transitive — always takes a direct object. Frequently appears in the passive voice when describing a person being overwhelmed by questions or smells.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.