Verbal attacks are hostile or aggressive words used to insult or criticize someone. They can take many forms, including SLAMS, salvos, and TIRADES. A slam is a harsh criticism or insult, usually delivered in a single statement. A salvo is a series of verbal attacks, often delivered in rapid succession. A tirade is an extended verbal attack, usually involving a lot of shouting and angry language. All three of these terms refer to verbal attacks that are meant to hurt or belittle someone.