Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FLANK, v.t. [Fr. flanquer. Sp. flanquear.]

1. To attack the side or flank of an army or body of troops; or to place troops so as to command or attack the flank.
2. To post so as to overlook or command on the side; as, to flank a passage. Dryden.
3. To secure or guard on the side; as, flanked with rocks. Dryden.
4. To turn the flank; to pass round the side.