When assail was first used in the 13th century, it meant "to make a violent physical attack upon." By the early 15th century, English speakers were using the term to mean "to attack with words or arguments."

ASSAIL definition: 1. to attack someone violently or criticize someone strongly: 2. to cause someone to experience a…. Learn more.

ASSAIL definition: to attack vigorously or violently; assault. See examples of assail used in a sentence.

Dividing his command, Morgan assailed both strongholds at the same time. [VERB noun] If you are assailed by something unpleasant such as fears or problems, you are greatly troubled by a large …

Definition of assail verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

assail (əˈseɪl) vb (tr) 1. to attack violently; assault 2. to criticize or ridicule vehemently, as in argument

to attack with arguments, criticism, ridicule, abuse, etc.: to assail one's opponent with slander. to undertake with the purpose of mastering: He assailed his studies with new determination.

To assail is to attack or assault — with throwing stars, fists, words or, less tangibly but just as violently, with troubles or doubts. Believe it or not, assail evolved from the ancient Latin word assilire, which …

Some common synonyms of assail are assault, attack, bombard, and storm. While all these words mean "to make an onslaught upon," assail implies attempting to break down resistance by repeated blows …

Dec 11, 2025 · assail (third-person singular simple present assails, present participle assailing, simple past and past participle assailed) Muggers assailed them as they entered an alley. Our ears were …