COUP DE MAIN Definition & Meaning

coup de main

[ koo duh man ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

French.

plural coups de main

a surprise attack; a sudden development.

coup de main

/ ku də mɛ̃ /

noun

military an attack that achieves complete surprise

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of coup de main¹

Literally, “blow from the hand”

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of coup de main¹

literally: blow with the hand

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Did you spot the coup de main there?

From

In the ring, Pacquiao, an avatar of speed and power combined into unremitting attack, exemplifies the Napoleonic principle of coup de main, the bold, decisive strike.

From

“I’ll bring it to you. It is a successful coup de main.”

From

In order to effect an entrance into the fort by a coup de main, they sent runners to frighten and drive in the horses and cattle.

From

In attempting to storm the fort by a coup de main, they were beaten off with the loss of 200 men, the garrison sallying out and driving them back to their ships.

From

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