outflank

[ out-flangk ]

verb (used with object)

1. to go or extend beyond the flank of (an opposing military unit); turn the flank of.
2. to outmaneuver or bypass.

outflank

/ ˌaʊtˈflæŋk /

verb

1. to go around the flank of (an opposing army)
2. to get the better of

Other Words From

• outflanker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of outflank¹

First recorded in 1755–65; out- + flank

Example Sentences

That promise outflanked the Labour Party, because it put a timeframe on the promise.

From BBC

The Conservatives may also be outflanked from the right, with Reform U.K. poised to stand candidates across Britain.

From Seattle Times

Reform UK is trying to outflank it from the right.

From Seattle Times

By the autumn of 1914, fighting on the Western Front—Belgium and France—had shifted back to the north as the opposing armies maneuvered to outflank one another.

From Literature

We allowed ourselves to be badly outflanked in terms of time and dragging our feet to deliver the Ukrainians these weapons systems.

From Salon

Related Words

• outdo
• outfox
• outshine
• outwit