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.
  ◄ ►