To leap or fall upon by violence; to assault; to attack suddenly, as when one person falls upon another to beat him.

To invade or attack, in a hostile manner, as an army, or nation.

To attack with arguments, censure, abuse, or criticism, with a view to injure, bring into disrepute, or overthrow.

To attack, with a view to overcome, by motives applied to the passions. Nor hide the encounter of assailing eyes.