Langimage
English

flanks

|flanks|

B2

/flæŋks/

(flank)

side

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
flankflanksflanksflankedflankedflanking
Etymology
Etymology Information

'flank' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'flanc', where 'flanc' meant 'side'.

Historical Evolution

'flanc' transformed into the Middle English word 'flank', and eventually became the modern English word 'flank'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'side of the body', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the side of a person's or animal's body between the ribs and the hip.

The horse was injured on its flank.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to be situated on each side of something.

The road was flanked by tall trees.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to attack or threaten the side of an opposing force.

The army flanked the enemy's position.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35