Definition

A strong and violent attack or a sudden and overwhelming amount of something.

Example

The city faced an onslaught of heavy rain that caused flooding.

Conversation

Did you hear about the onslaught of emails that came in after the announcement?

Yeah, it was crazy! I spent the whole day sorting through them.

I can’t believe how overwhelming that must have been.

Right? It felt like an onslaught of information all at once!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Onslaught originates from the Middle English 'onslaht', which is derived from the Old English 'onslaga' (meaning a sudden attack or assault). The word combines 'on-' (meaning upon) and 'slagan' (meaning to strike). Thus, onslaught refers to a sudden and violent attack upon someone or something.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sudden 'strike' ('slagan') that comes 'upon' ('on-') someone — that's why onslaught means a fierce attack.

Visually Confused Words