flank

/flæŋk/
verb
  1. To be situated on the side of something or someone.
    • Large bookshelves flank the fireplace in the library.
    • Two tall trees flank the entrance to the garden.
    • The guards flanked the king as he walked through the hall.
  2. To move around the side of an enemy or opponent in order to attack or gain an advantage.
    • The team tried to flank the defenders by going through the woods.
    • The soldiers flanked the enemy camp under cover of darkness.
    • In chess, you can flank your opponent's pawns with your knights.
noun
  1. The side of a person's or animal's body between the ribs and the hip.
    • The dog's flank was wet from lying in the grass.
    • The horse had a deep gash on its flank from the fence.
    • He felt a sharp pain in his flank after the long run.
  2. The side of a military formation, or a position on the side of an army or battle line.
    • The cavalry circled around to hit the flank of the opposing force.
    • Soldiers moved to protect the flank from a surprise assault.
    • The general ordered an attack on the enemy's left flank.
  3. The side of a mountain, building, or other large structure.
    • The western flank of the building was covered in ivy.
    • A small stream ran down the flank of the hill.
    • They hiked along the eastern flank of the mountain.
  4. A cut of meat from the side of an animal, especially beef.
    • She grilled a flank steak for dinner.
    • The recipe calls for flank, sliced thinly against the grain.
    • Flank is a lean cut that benefits from marinating.
Antonyms
What does "flank" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean