Obs. [f. as- for A- pref. 11 + SAIL v.] To sail. (But possibly an absol. use of ASSAIL v.1 12 ‘to venture.’)
c. 1384. Chaucer, H. Fame, I. 434 (Bodley & Fairfax MSS.). Thoo sawgh I grave [= pictured] how that to Itayle Daun Eneas is goo for to assayle [Caxt. saylle, Thynne sayle].
1482. Warkw., Chron., 26. And rode into Scottlande, and frome thens into Fraunce assailed.
