onslaught

[on-slawt, awn-]

noun

1. an onset, assault, or attack, especially a vigorous one.

onslaught

/ ˈɒnˌslɔːt /

noun

1. a violent attack

Word History and Origins

Origin of onslaught¹

1615–25; < Dutch aanslag a striking, (earlier) attack (equivalent to aan on + slag blow, stroke; akin to slay ), with assimilation to obsolete slaught slaughter

Word History and Origins

Origin of onslaught¹

C17: from Middle Dutch aenslag, from aan _on + slag a blow, related to _slay

Example Sentences

His respite, however, was uncannily timed to an onslaught of criticism after CNN revealed that the show’s longtime top writer had been secretly posting vile and hateful comments on the internet for years.

Read more on Salon

But a fresh onslaught of U.S.-China tensions triggered last week, coupled with concerns this week about bad loans extended by banks, has been pushing yields on longer-term Treasuries lower.

Read more on Barron's

An onslaught of federal immigration raids in the L.A. area starting in June made her realize things would be different.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But the onslaught of news landed “like a ton of bricks” in the frustrated community.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s an onslaught of extravagant Rococo, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, modern and contemporary porcelain showpieces, gilded and in dazzling blues, turquoises, ochers and pinks—made for sovereigns, dignitaries, diplomats, heads of state and the wealthy elite.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• aggression 
• assault 
• blitz 
• incursion 
• invasion 
• offensive 
• onset