battle of verdun
Proper noun A major and protracted military engagement during World War I, fought in 1916. It was one of the longest and bloodiest battles of the war, characterized by a German offensive against French defensive positions around the fortified city of Verdun-sur-Meuse. The battle became a symbol of French determination and sacrifice, as the German advance was ultimately halted.
The term is used to refer specifically to this historical event. It is often cited in discussions of World War I, military strategy, and the immense human cost of war. * The Battle of Verdun lasted for approximately ten months. * Historians study the Battle of Verdun to understand attrition warfare. * The phrase "They shall not pass" is famously associated with the French defense at the Battle of Verdun.
- "Verdun" as a metaphor: The name "Verdun" is sometimes used metaphorically to describe any situation of relentless, grinding conflict or extreme endurance test.
- The lengthy legal case became a Verdun of paperwork and depositions.
- Verdun (noun): Often used shorthand to refer to the battle itself or the location.
- The memorial at Verdun commemorates the fallen soldiers.
- Battle of attrition: A descriptive phrase for the type of warfare exemplified at Verdun, where the goal is to wear down the enemy through continuous losses.
- The Verdun Offensive
- The Battle for Verdun
- "They shall not pass" (Ils ne passeront pas): The iconic French defensive slogan from the battle, meaning the enemy will not break through the lines. It is used idiomatically to express steadfast resistance.
- Facing the corporate takeover, the small company's CEO declared, "They shall not pass."
- a battle in World War I (1916); in some of the bloodiest fighting in World War I the German offensive was stopped