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coup de main

noun
\ ˌkü-də-ˈmaⁿ How to pronounce coup de main (audio) \
plural coups de main\ ˌkü-​də-​ˈmaⁿ How to pronounce coups de main (audio) \

Definition of coup de main

: a sudden attack in force
Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about coup de main

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Examples of coup de main in a Sentence

the Continental Army's attack on the British-Hessian encampment at Trenton, New Jersey, ranks as one of the most brilliant coups de main of the war

Recent Examples on the Web

 Ryan Reynolds walked arm in arm with Blake Lively, and there were polite air-kisses and an appearance by Martha Stewart—but like the film’s coup de main, the night was filled with surprises. — Lauren Sanchez, Vogue, "Inside the World Premiere and Surreal After-Party for A Simple Favor With Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick, and Henry Golding," 11 Sep. 2018

First Known Use of coup de main

1758, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for coup de main

French, literally, hand stroke

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