Definition of "flak" in English

noun

1. Ground-based anti-aircraft guns firing explosive shells.

2. Anti-aircraft shell fire.

3. (figuratively, informal) Adverse criticism.

4. (informal) A public-relations spokesperson.

   • 2006, Edward Herman, Noam Chomsky, A Propaganda Model, in 2006 [2001], Meenakshi Gigi Durham, Douglas Kellner (editors), Media and Cultural Studies: Keyworks, revised edition, page 277, AIM head, Reed Irvine's diatribes are frequently published, and right-wing network flaks who regularly assail the “liberal media,” such as Michael Ledeen, are given Op-ed column space, sympathetic reviews, and a regular place on talk shows as experts.