blitz

/blɪts/

/blɪtz/

Other forms: blitzed; blitzing; blitzes

A sudden, overwhelming military attack during war is a blitz. Sometimes a major blitz can lead to the end of a conflict.

The idea of a blitz is that it either overpowers or completely surprises the enemy, and it often involves bombing from overhead. The military use of blitz has migrated to sports as well, especially in American football when the defense bursts through the offense or rushes the passer. Any kind of unexpected attack, in fact, has come to be known as a blitz. The word comes from the German Blitzkrieg, "rapid attack."

Definitions of blitz

1. noun

   a swift and violent military offensive with intensive aerial bombardment
   synonyms: blitzkrieg

   type of:

   attack, onrush, onset, onslaught

   (military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)
2. noun

   (American football) defensive play that tries to break through the offensive line
   synonyms: linebacker blitzing, safety blitz

   type of:

   maneuver, manoeuvre, play

   a deliberate coordinated movement requiring dexterity and skill
3. verb

   attack suddenly and without warning
   “Hitler blitzed Poland”

   type of:

   assail, attack

   launch an attack or assault on; begin hostilities or start warfare with