The term “ambushed” is often used to describe a situation where someone is caught off guard or surprised by an unexpected attack. It can refer to a physical attack, as well as a figurative one, such as a surprise question or accusation. In this article, we’ll explore the definition and meaning of “ambushed,” as well as its origins and associations.
Definitions
The Oxford English Dictionary defines “ambushed” as “to attack from a concealed position.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to attack by surprise from a hidden place.” Both definitions emphasize the element of surprise and the use of a hidden or concealed position.
Origin
The word “ambush” comes from the Old French word “embuscher,” which means “to place in a wood or to lie in wait.” The word first appeared in English in the 16th century and was used to describe a military tactic of attacking an enemy from a concealed position.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In addition to the definitions provided by the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam-Webster, other dictionaries offer similar definitions of “ambushed.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to attack someone after hiding and waiting for them.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “to attack unexpectedly from a concealed position.”
Associations
The word “ambushed” is often associated with negative or violent situations. It can be used to describe an attack by an enemy or a surprise accusation or criticism. The word is also associated with a sense of betrayal, as the person being ambushed may feel that they have been deceived or misled.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “ambushed” include surprised, caught off guard, waylaid, and bushwhacked. These words all convey a sense of being caught unawares or unexpectedly.
Antonyms
Antonyms of “ambushed” include prepared, forewarned, and ready. These words suggest a state of readiness or awareness that would prevent someone from being caught off guard.
The same root words
The word “ambush” comes from the Old French word “embuscher,” which is derived from the Latin word “inboscare,” meaning “to put in a wood.” The root word “boscare” means “to go into the woods,” which is where the tactic of ambush was often used in military operations.
Example Sentences
- The soldiers were ambushed by enemy forces as they approached the village.
- I felt ambushed when my boss called me into her office and accused me of stealing.
- The journalist was ambushed with difficult questions during the press conference.
- The hikers were ambushed by a group of robbers on the trail.
- The politician was ambushed by protesters at the campaign rally.
In conclusion, the word “ambushed” is often used to describe a surprise attack or accusation. Its origins in military tactics and its associations with violence and betrayal give the word a negative connotation. However, it can also be used in a figurative sense to describe a surprise or unexpected event.