fusillade

[ fyoo-suh-leyd, -lahd, -zuh- ]

noun

1. a simultaneous or continuous discharge of firearms.
2. a general discharge or outpouring of anything:

   a fusillade of questions.

verb (used with object)

, fu·sil·lad·ed, fu·sil·lad·ing.

1. to attack or shoot by a fusillade.

fusillade

/ -ˈlɑːd; ˌfjuːzɪˈleɪd /

noun

1. a simultaneous or rapid continual discharge of firearms
2. a sudden outburst, as of criticism

verb

1. tr to attack with a fusillade

Word History and Origins

Origin of fusillade¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; from French, equivalent to fusill(er) “to shoot” ( fusil ¹ ) + -ade -ade ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of fusillade¹

C19: from French, from fusiller to shoot; see fusil ¹

Example Sentences

“We can’t have business as usual,” Mr. Scott insisted as the Senate convened this week for the first time since Mr. Trump’s trial ended in New York with a fusillade of “guilty” verdicts.

From New York Times

A cannon fusillade launched at men given no warning.

From New York Times

The militaries of the United States, Britain, France and others stepped in to help Israel defend against the fusillade of more than 300 Iranian drones and missiles, nearly all of which were intercepted.

From New York Times

The fusillade reflected Russia’s renewed focus on striking Ukrainian energy facilities.

From Seattle Times

This fusillade of explosions in quick succession produces a powerful galactic wind blowing gas out of the galaxy.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• barrage
• broadside
• salvo
• volley