Am"bush (#), n. [F. embuche, fr. the verb. See Ambush, v. t.]

1.

A disposition or arrangement of troops for attacking an enemy unexpectedly from a concealed station. Hence: Unseen peril; a device to entrap; a snare.

Heaven, whose high walls fear no assault or siege Or ambush from the deep. Milton.

2.

A concealed station, where troops or enemies lie in wait to attack by surprise.

Bold in close ambush, base in open field. Dryden.

3.

The troops posted in a concealed place, for attacking by surprise; liers in wait.

[Obs.]

The ambush arose quickly out of their place. Josh. viii. 19.

To lay an ambush, to post a force in ambush.

 

© Webster 1913.


Am"bush (#), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Ambushed (#); p. pr. & vb. n. Ambushing.] [OE. enbussen, enbushen, OF. embushier, embuissier, F. embucher, embusquer, fr. LL. imboscare; in + LL. boscus, buscus, a wood; akin to G. bush, E. bush. See Ambuscade, Buh.]

1.

To station in ambush with a view to surprise an enemy.

By ambushed men behind their temple ai, We have the king of Mexico betrayed. Dryden.

2.

To attack by ambush; to waylay.

 

© Webster 1913.


Am"bush, v. i.

To lie in wait, for the purpose of attacking by surprise; to lurk.

Nor saw the snake that ambushed for his prey. Trumbull.

 

© Webster 1913.