guerrilla
UK: ɡəˈrɪlə | US: ɡəˈrɪlə
n. a member of a small, independent group fighting against larger forces, often using unconventional tactics
n. (attributive) relating to such fighters or their methods (e.g., guerrilla warfare)
The term originated in early 19th-century Spain during the Peninsular War, where local fighters used hit-and-run tactics against Napoleon's army. Borrowed from Spanish "guerrilla" (literally "little war"), it reflects the asymmetric nature of such combat. The Germanic root "werra" entered Romance languages via Vulgar Latin, evolving into "guerra" in Spanish. The diminutive suffix "-illa" softens the term, contrasting with formal military operations.
Guerrilla fighters ambushed the convoy in the dense jungle.
The artist gained fame through guerrilla marketing tactics.
Guerrilla warfare requires deep knowledge of local terrain.
The documentary explored the history of guerrilla movements.
They organized a guerrilla protest to disrupt the corporate event.