flank

To flank is defined as to be on either side of something.

(verb)

When there is a bookcase on both sides of a fireplace, this is an example of a situation where the bookcases flank the fireplace.

The definition of flank is the side section of the human or animal body between the lowest rib and the hip.

(noun)

An example of the flank is the side of a person, basically a few inches above the waistline.

See flank in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the fleshy side of a person or animal between the ribs and the hip
a cut of beef from this part
loosely the outer side of the upper part of the human thigh
the side of anything
Mil. the right or left side of a formation or force, or of the projection of a bastion

Origin: ME flanke < OFr flanc < Frank *hlanka, akin to OHG hlanka, a hip, flank: for IE base see lank

adjective

of or having to do with the flank

transitive verb

to be at the side of
to place at the side, or on either side, of
Mil.
1. to protect the side of (a friendly unit)
2. to attack the side of (an enemy unit)
3. to pass around the side of (an enemy unit)

intransitive verb

to be located at the side: with on or upon

See flank in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The section of flesh on the body of a person or an animal between the last rib and the hip; the side.
A cut of meat from the flank of an animal.
A lateral part or side: the flank of a mountain.
a. The right or left side of a military formation: an attack on both flanks.
b. The right or left side of a bastion.

transitive verb flanked, flank·ing, flanks

To protect or guard the flank of.
To menace or attack the flank of.
To be placed or situated at the flank or side of: Two stone lions flanked the entrance.
To put (something) on each side of: flanked the driveway with tall shrubs.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Old English flanc

Origin: , from Old French flanc

Origin: , of Germanic origin

Learn more about flank

flank synonyms

flank medical definition

flank in a sentence

flank images