Attack mentioned by a sailor (7)

I believe the answer is:

assault

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'attack' is the definition.
(I know that assault is a type of attack)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for assault that I've seen before include "Mount an attack" , "Sudden violent attack" , "Lash" , "Attack physically" , "Violent attack in action or words" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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