assail

/əˈseɪl/
verb
  1. To attack someone or something violently or with force.
    • The soldiers assailed the fortress with arrows and ladders.
    • The dog assailed the intruder, barking and snapping.
    • A group of protesters assailed the politician with angry shouts.
  2. To criticize or oppose someone or something strongly and persistently.
    • Critics assailed the movie for its weak plot and poor acting.
    • The senator was assailed by reporters demanding answers.
    • Online trolls assailed her with nasty comments after the interview.
  3. To affect someone or something in a troubling or overwhelming way (of thoughts, feelings, or sensations).
    • Doubts assailed him as he prepared for the big presentation.
    • A wave of sadness assailed her when she heard the news.
    • The strong smell of smoke assailed our noses as we entered the building.
What does "assail" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean