Synonyms for

Attacked

Verb / ʌˈtækt / Another word for attacked — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To act violently against someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

lashout aggress assail snipe assault attack seton defend round assaulted ambushed beset besieged raided stormed struck surprised violated invaded captured overran overwhelmed seized occupied conquered subdued beat hit pounced

Synonyms by register

Formal

assaulted assailed bombarded assaulted

Informal

went after jumped on laid into went to town on

Literary

smote beleaguered assaulted

Antonyms

defended protected resisted repelled thwarted safeguarded

Common collocations

  • suddenly attacked
  • viciously attacked
  • unexpectedly attacked
  • attacked by a dog
  • attacked the enemy
  • attacked the market
  • attacked the problem

Word family

noun attack
verb attack
adjective attacking
adverb attackingly

Usage note

The word 'attacked' can refer to a physical assault, a verbal criticism, or a strong effort to overcome something. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. The cat attacked the mouse.
  2. The bully attacked the smaller kid.
  3. The army attacked the enemy base.
  4. The shark attacked the swimmer.
  5. The virus attacked the body's immune system.

Quotes

  • I have never been attacked by a lion or a tiger or a bear, oh my! But I have been bitten by a dog and a cat. - Rick Riordan
  • You know, I've been attacked by the liberal media since the day I announced for governor. - Scott Walker
  • The first time I was in the ring with Muhammad Ali, I was thinking 'Oh, I hope he doesn't hit me. I hope he doesn't hit me.' Then he attacked me. - George Foreman

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