bushwhack
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbʊʃˌhwæk/
KK: /bʊʃˌhwæk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move through or navigate in a wild or wooded area, often in a stealthy or guerrilla-like manner.
Example
They decided to bushwhack through the forest to avoid the main road.
Tense Forms
Past: bushwhacked
Past Participle: bushwhacked
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how fun it would be to bushwhack through the forest?
That sounds exciting! I love the idea of exploring nature like that.
Yeah, just imagine finding hidden trails and secret spots.
Absolutely! It could be an adventure to bushwhack and see what we discover.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ambush
skulk
sneak
Antonyms
march
advance
confront
transitive verb
Definition
To surprise and attack someone from a hidden position.
Example
The soldiers decided to bushwhack the enemy as they passed through the forest.
Tense Forms
Past: bushwhacked
Past Participle: bushwhacked
Conversation
Did you hear about the prank they pulled on Mark last weekend?
No, what happened?
They totally bushwhacked him while he was walking in the park!
Root Explanation
Bushwhack → It is formed from "bush" (from Old English *busc*, meaning a thicket or shrub) and "whack" (from Middle English *whakken*, meaning to strike or hit). The word describes the act of striking or attacking someone from a concealed position in the bushes.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone hiding in the 'bushes' ('bush') and then 'striking' ('whack') unexpectedly — that's how you remember that 'bushwhack' means to ambush or attack from hiding.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.