assailant

[uh-sey-luhnt]

noun

1. a person who attacks.

adjective

1. Archaic.,  assailing; attacking; hostile.

assailant

/ əˈseɪlənt /

noun

1. a person who attacks another, either physically or verbally

   he was unable to recognize his assailants

Word History and Origins

Origin of assailant¹

From the Middle French word assaillant, dating back to 1525–35. See assail, -ant

Example Sentences

The pattern of wounds suggests that three assailants took part: one confronted him from the front while the others struck from the left and right.

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Despite video evidence showing the unprovoked attack, Oliva was barred from suing his assailants because Section 1983 doesn’t apply to federal officials.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Less than two months on, and still bearing the scars from the attack on his face, he describes his recovery as "incredible" - and says he even hopes to encounter his assailant again.

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Armed assailants had attacked the vessel, run by Greek firm Latsco Marine Management, as it was travelling to South Africa from India on Thursday with 24 crew members aboard.

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Alistair said he saw around a dozen people inside this enclosed buffet counter in coach G and they were "trying to close up the shutters" to protect themselves from the assailant.

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Related Words

• aggressor 
• mugger