Coup de main

//ku də meɪn// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A sudden development or action carried out to surprise an enemy.

    "That which of all things he most dreaded was that he should be out-generalled by Mr. Slope; and just at present it appeared probable that Mr. Slope would turn his flank, steal a march on him, cut off his provisions, carry his strong town by a coup de main, and at last beat him thoroughly in a regular pitched battle."

  2. 2
    an attack without warning wordnet

Etymology

Borrowed from French coup de main.

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