fusillade

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a large number of shots fired simultaneously or in rapid succession

   The defenders answered with a fusillade of rifle fire from the walls.

2. 2
   noun

   a rapid and forceful outpouring of words, objects, or criticism

   The minister faced a fusillade of questions from reporters.

Borrowed from French fusillade, from fusiller ("to shoot with a firearm"), itself from fusil ("gun, rifle"). The figurative sense treats a rapid series of questions, criticisms, or blows as a volley of gunfire.

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