rhizoverbBeta
DictionarylungeSudden forward movement
noun / verb

lunge

LUNJ/lʌndʒ/

A sudden forward thrust or movement.

The fencer lunges forward with the front knee bent and rear leg extended.

Adult fencer makes a sudden forward lunge, front knee bent and rear leg extended, protective gear, safe sporting scene, no letters.
Etymology
lungeFrenchto extend, thrust

The idea of extending became a fencing thrust, reaching forward with a sword. That specialized action broadened into any sudden forward rush.

In context

LibriVox Audiobooks372:58
If shells burst behind, they lunge forward. If shells burst ahead, they go back on their haunches …
Everyman at War. Sixty Personal Narratives of the War by Charles B. Purdom Part 1/3 | Audio Book

More examples

  • She makes a quick lunge to stop the rolling stroller.
  • The dog lunged at the squirrel, pulling its leash tight.
  • He dodges his opponent's lunge and steps out of reach.

Forms

lunge · lunges · lunged · lunging

Similar words

thrust
Emphasizes a forceful push, often with a weapon or limb.
rush
Emphasizes rapid movement rather than a single forward thrust.