Attack
Any try to score by sending the ball over the net, other than the serve. A hard spike, a roll shot, a tip, and a setter dump are all attacks. The stat crew records the swing whether it scores, gets dug, or goes out. The usual offensive order is pass, set, attack. When the attack wins the rally right away, it is also a kill.
Example
The pass is on target, the setter puts a high ball to the outside, and the hitter swings cross-court. The ball hits the floor. That swing is an attack, and because it scored, it is a kill too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an attack and a spike?
A spike is one kind of attack: a hard swing with a full approach. Attack is the wider word. It covers spikes, tips, roll shots, and dumps. You can have a good attacking night and still change speeds.
Can back-row players attack in volleyball?
Yes. A back-row player can attack a ball that is completely above the net as long as they jump from behind the attack line, the line 3 meters (about 10 feet) from the net. They can land in front of the line after they hit. The usual versions are a pipe from the middle of the back court and a swing from the back right.