What does strafe mean?
Strafe is chiefly a military verb meaning to fire a weapon at a target while passing over it, usually from a low-flying aircraft. The related noun names such an attack or firing pass. A pilot may strafe a position, while troops below may describe hearing an aircraft begin a strafing run. The word can also be used informally for a sharp reprimand or severe verbal attack, although that sense is less central and more figurative. Its vocabulary is strongly associated with aerial warfare and carries a forceful, aggressive tone. Strafe entered English from German during the early twentieth century: the German source meant “punishment,” reflecting the idea of punishing an enemy from the air. The term is consequently useful not only for describing military action but also for adding vivid metaphorical emphasis to criticism or bombardment. It is normally transitive and is pronounced as a single syllable.
To fire repeatedly at a target from an aircraft or another moving platform; informally, to criticize or reprimand harshly.
"The aircraft strafed the bunker with machine-gun fire."
The military sense is dominant. The figurative sense is informal and usually implies an intense verbal attack.
An attack in which a target is fired upon, especially by a low-flying aircraft.
"The garrison suffered several strafes from the approaching fighter."
The noun usually denotes a distinct attack or firing pass and is less common in general speech than the verb.
The plural strafes is standard but relatively uncommon; the attributive form strafing is often more natural.
"The squadron recorded three strafes against the bridge."
Strafe comes from a German word meaning punishment, but its military meaning is wonderfully literal: punishing a target with a burst of fire.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does strafe come from?
The English word was borrowed from German during the early twentieth century, when German Strafe meant “punishment” and strafen meant “to punish.” Its military use developed in the context of aerial warfare, especially during the First World War, when a low-flying aircraft could attack troops and positions below. English adopted the military sense, and the word was later extended figuratively to harsh criticism or reprimand.
Related word forms
How strafe is actually used
The word is chiefly military and has an aggressive, forceful tone. Its figurative use for sharp criticism is possible but less common.
Easily confused with strafe
A strafe is an attack involving gunfire, whereas a strait is a narrow channel of water or, in older usage, a difficult situation.