bombard
UK: bɒmˈbɑːd | US: bɑːmˈbɑːrd
vt. 1. To attack repeatedly with bombs or artillery.
vt. 2. To subject someone to persistent questions, criticisms, or information.
n. 3. (Historical) A medieval cannon or mortar.
bombard = bomb<explosive projectile> + ard<agent suffix>
- bomb: From Latin bombus (a booming sound), via Italian bomba (explosive device). Retains the core idea of explosive force.
- ard: A suffix of Germanic origin (e.g., drunkard), often implying excessive or habitual action.
Etymology Origin:
The word bombard originated in the 15th century, initially referring to early artillery weapons that launched explosive projectiles. The morpheme bomb reflects the destructive power, while -ard emphasizes the repetitive or intense nature of the action. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe verbal or informational "attacks."
The army decided to bombard the enemy fortress at dawn.
Reporters bombarded the celebrity with questions about the scandal.
During the siege, the defenders faced constant bombard from cannons.
The teacher bombarded the students with pop quizzes.
Medieval bombard were primitive but effective against castle walls.