Forceful military attack (6) Crossword Clue
Answer: ONRUSH (6 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Forceful military attack" with 6 letters is "ONRUSH".Onrush refers to a forceful or rapid military attack, often characterized by a swift and overwhelming advance. It conveys the idea of a sudden, intense assault or rush, typically intended to surprise or overpower the opponent quickly.
Why “Onrush” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (6 letters) meaning “forceful military attack.” The answer, ONRUSH, fits directly:
- Forceful military attack: The word onrush describes a sudden, powerful, forward-moving force, which can be used literally for a violent military assault or figuratively for any unstoppable advance.
- Direct match: With exactly 6 letters, onrush aligns perfectly with the clue’s enumeration and meaning.
- Precise fit: It captures the sense of overwhelming momentum, ideal for describing an aggressive attack or charge.
The word onrush is rooted in English compounds:
- Origin and usage: It combines on (forward motion) and rush (sudden, vigorous movement), together evoking a strong surge.
- Historical and modern contexts: In military usage, the “onrush of troops” or “onrush of cavalry” conveys an assault with irresistible energy. In everyday language, it is extended metaphorically, such as “the onrush of emotions” or “the onrush of time.”
- Examples: “The onrush of the army forced the enemy back,” or “They braced against the onrush of the crowd.” Both highlight its association with forceful, rapid movement.
In quick crosswords, a clue like “forceful military attack (6)” points to a strong, action-oriented noun:
- Synonyms like assault (7) or attack (6) might come to mind, but attack feels too direct and doesn’t fit the elevated tone quick crosswords sometimes favor.
- With its 6-letter structure and vivid sense of vigorous advance, onrush emerges as the natural answer.
- Crosswords often prefer slightly less common but precise words, and onrush provides both the accuracy of meaning and elegance in brevity.
