fusillade
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌfjuːzɪˈlɑːd/
KK: /fjuˈzɪlɑd/
noun
Definition
A series of shots fired quickly from multiple guns at the same time, or a sudden outpouring of something like insults or criticism.
Example
The soldiers launched a fusillade at the enemy position, creating a loud and chaotic sound.
Conversation
Did you hear that fusillade of fireworks last night?
Yeah, it was so loud! I thought it was gunfire at first.
I know, right? It felt like a massive fusillade going off.
Totally! I love how exciting they can be, though.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
barrage
salvo
volley
Antonyms
silence
calm
peace
transitive verb
Definition
To attack someone or something with a rapid series of shots or blows.
Example
The soldiers decided to fusillade the enemy position to gain the upper hand.
Tense Forms
Past: fusilladed
Past Participle: fusilladed
Conversation
Did you see how they fusillade the fireworks during the festival?
Yeah, it was incredible! The sky lit up so beautifully.
I can't believe how synchronized they were when they fusillade them all at once.
Root Explanation
Fusillade → It is formed from "fusiller" (from French, meaning to shoot) and the suffix "-ade" (indicating an action or result). The word "fusillade" refers to a series of shots fired simultaneously or in rapid succession, particularly in a military context.
Memory Tip
Imagine a group of people 'shooting' ('fusiller') at once, which helps you remember that a fusillade is a rapid series of gunfire.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.