airstrike
UK: ˈeəstraɪk | US: ˈɛrstraɪk
n. a military attack carried out by aircraft, typically involving bombs or missiles.
The word "airstrike" is a compound formed in the early 20th century, combining "air" (from Old French "air," Latin "aer," meaning the atmosphere) and "strike" (from Old English "strīcan," meaning to hit or deliver a blow). The term reflects the evolution of warfare tactics, specifically the use of aircraft to deliver targeted attacks. The logic is straightforward: "air" specifies the medium of the attack, while "strike" conveys the action of hitting a target.
The military launched an airstrike on the enemy's supply depot.
Civilians were warned to evacuate before the airstrike began.
The airstrike destroyed several key infrastructure targets.
Protesters condemned the airstrike for causing civilian casualties.
The government denied responsibility for the unauthorized airstrike.