Ambusher is a word that is used to describe someone who lies in wait to attack or ambush their prey. The term is often used in military contexts, but it can also be applied to any situation where someone is waiting to pounce on their target. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of ambusher, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and usage in example sentences.
Definitions
The term ambusher can be defined as someone who attacks or surprises their prey by lying in wait. It can also refer to a military tactic in which troops lie in wait to ambush an enemy force. In both cases, the ambusher is using the element of surprise to gain an advantage over their target.
Origin
The word ambusher comes from the Old French word embuscher, which means “to ambush.” The term dates back to the 14th century and has been used in military contexts ever since. The word has also been used in literature and popular culture to describe characters who use surprise attacks to gain an advantage over their enemies.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an ambusher is “one that ambushes.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines an ambusher as “a person who lies in wait to attack by surprise.” In both cases, the definition emphasizes the element of surprise that is inherent in the act of ambushing.
Associations
The term ambusher is often associated with military tactics and warfare. It is also used in hunting and fishing contexts, where someone might lie in wait to catch their prey. In addition, the term can be applied to any situation where someone is waiting to pounce on their target, such as in sports or business.
Synonyms
Synonyms for ambusher include attacker, assailant, aggressor, and predator. These terms all emphasize the act of attacking or preying on someone, often with the element of surprise.
Antonyms
Antonyms for ambusher include defender, protector, and guardian. These terms emphasize the act of protecting or defending someone, often against an attack or ambush.
The Same Root Words as Ambusher
The word ambusher is derived from the Old French word embuscher, which is also the root word for the English word ambush. Other words that are derived from the same root include bushwhack, which means to ambush someone in a wooded area, and imbue, which means to inspire or influence someone.
Example Sentences
- The soldiers lay in wait, ready to ambush the enemy troops.
- The hunter hid behind a tree, waiting to ambush the deer.
- The basketball player faked out his defender and ambushed the basket.
- The business rival waited for the right moment to ambush his competitor with a hostile takeover bid.
- The police set up a sting operation to ambush the drug dealers.