As·sault, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Assaulted; p. pr. & vb. n. Assaulting.]
1. To make an assault upon, as by a sudden rush of armed men; to attack with unlawful or insulting physical violence or menaces.
Insnared, assaulted, overcome, led bound. --Milton.
2. To attack with moral means, or with a view of producing moral effects; to attack by words, arguments, or unfriendly measures; to assail; as, to assault a reputation or an administration.
Before the gates, the cries of babes newborn, . . .
Assault his ears. --Dryden.
Note: ☞ In the latter sense, assail is more common.
Syn: -- To attack; assail; invade; encounter; storm; charge. See Attack.
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