Definition

1. Noun:

   • A rapid, simultaneous, and continuous discharge of many firearms: A "fusillade" refers specifically to a concentrated burst of gunfire from multiple weapons fired at once or in quick succession.
   • A rapid, concentrated outpouring or series of things: By extension, "fusillade" can describe any similar rapid and concentrated series, such as questions, criticisms, or objects.

2. Verb:

   • To attack or shoot at with a fusillade: To direct a concentrated burst of gunfire or, figuratively, a rapid series of criticisms or questions at someone or something.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The soldiers unleashed a deafening fusillade against the enemy position.
  • The CEO faced a fusillade of questions from the skeptical reporters.
  • A fusillade of hailstones battered the roof of the car.

• Verb:

  • The troops fusilladed the building before advancing.
  • During the debate, she was fusilladed with accusations from her opponent.

Advanced Usage

• "A fusillade of...": This is the most common structure, used to describe an intense, rapid series.
  • He responded to the fusillade of insults with remarkable calm.
• Historical/Military Context: The term often appears in descriptions of historical battles or military engagements to emphasize a sudden, overwhelming volume of fire.

Variants and Related Words

• Salvo (n): A simultaneous discharge of artillery or other weapons, or a sudden burst of applause or criticism. While similar, a "salvo" can be a single, simultaneous discharge, whereas a "fusillade" emphasizes rapid, continuous firing.
• Volley (n): A number of bullets, arrows, or other projectiles discharged at one time. Like "salvo," it implies simultaneity rather than necessarily a prolonged burst.
• Barrage (n): A concentrated artillery bombardment over a wide area; a relentless outpouring. "Barrage" is a very close synonym, especially in its figurative use.

Synonyms

• Noun: Barrage, volley, salvo, hail, storm, shower, burst.
• Verb: Bombard, pepper, strafe, rake, shower.

Related Phrases

• "Under a fusillade of...": Being subjected to a rapid series.
  • The spokesperson stood firm under a fusillade of hostile questions.

Idioms

• While not a standalone idiom, the phrase "a fusillade of..." is idiomatic in its figurative use to describe any overwhelming, rapid series of similar things.
  • The new policy was met with a fusillade of complaints from citizens.

Noun

1. rapid simultaneous discharge of firearms
   • our fusillade from the left flank caught them by surprise

Verb

1. attack with fusillade