onset

ON'SET, n. [on and set.]

1. A rushing or setting upon; a violent attack; assault; a storming; appropriately, the assault of an army or body of troops upon an enemy or a fort.

The shout of battle now began and rushing sound of onset.

2. An attack of any kind; as the impetuous onset of grief.

ON'SET, v.t. To assault; to begin. [Not used.]