flank

flank · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

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

  2. 2.

    The right or left side of a military formation, body of troops, or fleet.

  3. 3.

    A cut of meat from the side of an animal.

  4. 4.

    The side of anything, such as a mountain or building.

Forms

plural: flanks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    flank attack — an attack on the side of an enemy formation
  • •
    outflank — to go around the side of an opponent

Related words

Antonyms: center, front
See also: side, steak, wing
Synonyms: side, wing

Etymology

From Old French flanc ("hip, side"), of Germanic origin, related to Old High German hlanca ("hip, loin").