Usage Note
Fusillade refers to a rapid exchange of gunfire or a volley of shots — une fusillade éclate ('shooting breaks out'). It can also describe a mass execution by firing squad. The word entered English as 'fusillade', keeping its French spelling and meaning. The verb fusiller means 'to shoot' (often by firing squad).
Examples
"Une fusillade a éclaté près du marché."
Natural Translation
Shooting broke out near the market.
Related Words
Explore French by topic
FrenchNow
7 min read