n. An attack or violent onset with physical means; an onslaught; especially, a sudden and vigorous attack on a fortified post.n. Specifically In law, an unlawful attack upon the person of another; an attempt or offer to do violence to another, coupled with present ability to effect it, but irrespective of whether the person is touched or not, as by lifting the fist or a cane in a threatening manner.n. An attack with other than physical force, as by means of legislative measures, by arguments, invective, appeals, etc.: as, an assault upon the constitution of government; an assault upon one's reputation.To attack by physical means; fall upon with violence or with a hostile intention: as, to assault a man, a house, a town.Specifically In law, to attempt or offer to do violence to another, with present ability to accomplish it. See assault, n., 2.To attack with other than physical force; assail with arguments, complaints, hostile words, etc.Synonyms Attack, Set upon, etc. (see assail); to storm. See attack.