Word Noun
shelling
n.
uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈʃɛɫɪŋ/ UK /ʃˈɛlɪŋ/ shelling
Definition
n.a heavy attack using big guns or bombs that last for a long time. It usually happens during a war or a battle.
n.the act of firing explosive projectiles or heavy artillery at a target over a sustained period. Often used in military or conflict reporting contexts.
Examples
“The city suffered heavy shelling throughout the night.”
“Civilians were forced to hide in underground shelters to escape the constant shelling of the residential district.”
“The peace negotiations were abruptly suspended following reports of renewed shelling along the border, which both sides claimed was a violation of the ceasefire.”
Usage
Often appears in the phrase 'heavy shelling' or 'artillery shelling'.
Real-world usage
“That’s my focus: not trenches or shelling, not rockets, bullets or guns.”
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated