Definition

A type of attack where a low-flying aircraft fires machine guns or cannons at targets on the ground.

Example

The military used a strafe to target enemy positions during the operation.

Conversation

Did you see that movie about the war pilots?

Yeah, the action scenes were intense, especially the strafe sequences.

I know, right? The way they depicted the strafe was so realistic!

Absolutely! It really added to the overall excitement of the film.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To attack ground targets from the air using machine guns or cannons, typically by flying low over them.

Example

The fighter jets strafed the enemy positions during the mission.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that movie about the air force pilots?

Yeah, the part where they strafe the enemy troops was so intense!

I know, right? It really showed how dangerous that job can be.

Root Explanation

Strafe originates from the German word 'strafen', meaning to punish or to penalize. The term was adopted into English during World War I to describe the act of attacking ground targets from the air, reflecting a sense of punishment or attack from above.

Memory Tip

Think of the German word 'strafen' which means to punish — this helps you remember that 'strafe' refers to attacking or punishing from the air.

Visually Confused Words