flank
UK: flæŋk | US: flæŋk
n. 1. The side of something, especially an animal's body between the ribs and hip.
n. 2. A lateral part or edge of a military formation.
vt. 1. To be situated on the side of something.
vt. 2. To attack or defend the side of a military position.
The word "flank" traces back to Old French flanc, meaning "side" or "hip," which itself likely derived from Frankish or another Germanic source (compare Old High German hlanca, "loin"). The term originally described the side of an animal or human body, later extending to military tactics (e.g., "flanking maneuvers") due to its spatial connotation. The consistency in meaning—from physical anatomy to strategic positioning—reflects its logical progression.
The soldier guarded the flank of the advancing troops.
A sharp pain shot through the horse's flank after the fall.
The castle was flanked by two towering mountains.
The general ordered a surprise attack on the enemy's left flank.
She placed her hand on the dog's flank to calm it.