Raid

Definition

Raid refers to a sudden, surprise attack or incursion into enemy territory, especially to obtain something or to destroy something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪd/
• Respelling: RAYD (with "RAY" as in "ray," and "D" pronounced as the standard English "d")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪd/
• Respelling: RAYD (similar to American English, with "RAY" as in "ray," and "D" pronounced as the standard English "d")

In both dialects, "raid" is pronounced with a single syllable, "RAYD." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, emphasizing the "RAY" part clearly.

Etymology

The term "raid" originates from the Old English word "rād" meaning "a riding, journey", which later evolved to mean "a hostile incursion to plunder". This term is related to the Old High German "reit", which translates to "ride".

Derivatives

• Raider
• Raiding
• Unraided
• Pre-raid
• Counter-raid

Synonyms

• Incursion
• Invasion
• Foray

Antonyms

• Defense
• Retreat
• Guard

Usage

"Raid" is most commonly used in military contexts to describe surprise attacks, but it can also be used more broadly to refer to any sudden incursion or quick, unexpected entrance into a place.

Related Terms

• Air raid
• Police raid
• Raiding party
• Surprise raid

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A sudden surprise attack on an enemy, typically for the purpose of seizing something or inflicting damage.
• Example: The commandos launched a raid on the enemy base.

• An act of entering another's territory or domain, especially to cause damage or obtain goods.
• Example: The Vikings were known for their raids on coastal villages.

• A surprise visit by police to arrest suspects or seize illicit goods.
• Example: The police conducted a raid on the illegal gambling den.

Verb

• To conduct a sudden attack or incursion.
• Example: They planned to raid the neighboring village at dawn.

• To suddenly enter a place to cause damage or obtain goods.
• Example: He raided the pantry in the middle of the night.