onslaught Definition
- 1a fierce or violent attack
- 2a large quantity of people or things that is difficult to cope with
Using onslaught: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "onslaught" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The enemy launched a sudden onslaught on the city.
Example
The company faced an onslaught of criticism after the scandal broke out.
Example
The town was hit by an onslaught of tourists during the summer season.
onslaught Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using onslaught
to actively participate in a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something
Example
Despite the risks, he threw himself into the onslaught, determined to make a difference.
to endure or survive a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something without giving up or being defeated
Example
The team managed to ride out the onslaught of the opposing team's attacks, and eventually won the game.
to prevent or slow down a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something
Example
The firefighters worked tirelessly to hold back the onslaught of the raging wildfire, saving many homes and lives.
Phrases with onslaught
the beginning or start of a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something
Example
The onset of the onslaught was sudden and unexpected, catching the defenders off guard.
Example
The small village managed to weather the onslaught of the storm, thanks to their sturdy buildings and preparedness.
Example
The mounting onslaught of work was taking a toll on her mental health, and she decided to take a break.
Origins of onslaught
from Middle Dutch 'an-slaht', meaning 'a blow'
Summary: onslaught in Brief
'Onslaught' [ˈɒn.slɔːt] refers to a fierce or violent attack, or a large quantity of people or things that is difficult to cope with. It can be used in contexts ranging from military battles to overwhelming workloads, as in 'The company faced an onslaught of criticism after the scandal broke out.' Phrases like 'weather the onslaught' and idioms like 'hold back the onslaught' denote the ability to withstand or prevent such attacks.