Milit., to pierce, scour, or rake with shot through the whole length, as a work or line of troops; be in a position to attack (a military work or a line of troops) in this manner.
noun.
Milit., a line or straight passage; specifically, the situation of a place, or of a body of men, which may be raked with shot through its whole length.
noun.
Milit., An infantry or artillery fire which sweeps a line of works or men from flank to flank.