# broadside

/ˈbɹɔdˌsaɪd/ (US) · /bɹˈɔːdsaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/broadside
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a powerful attack or a strong criticism that is directed at someone or something. It can also mean a large sheet of paper printed on one side only.

For teachers: a powerful, concentrated attack or a sharp, comprehensive criticism. In a nautical or historical context, it refers to a large sheet of paper printed on one side only.

## Examples

- The newspaper published a broadside against the new tax law.
- The politician faced a broadside from the opposition after the scandal broke in the morning papers.
- The critic's broadside was so scathing that it effectively ended the artist's career, though it was later dismissed as a personal vendetta.

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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.