Flank” Meaning

Flank means the side of something, especially the side of a body, object, or group. It can also mean to move or stand at the side of something.

People use flank in everyday English when talking about position, direction, or body pain. For example, someone may say they have pain in their flank, or a team may try to flank an enemy by attacking from the side.

Meaning & Usage

Flank is often used in formal, military, or medical contexts, but it can also appear in normal conversation. It usually refers to the side area of the body or the side of a person, animal, or object.

Examples

“He felt pain in his left flank.”

“The soldiers moved to flank the enemy.”

“The guard stood at the flank of the building.”

What does flank mean in the body?

In the body, flank means the side between the ribs and the hip.

What does flank mean in action?

It can mean to move around the side of someone or something, often to get a better position.

Is flank a common word?

Yes, but it is more common in formal writing, medicine, and military language than in casual speech.