fisticuffs

British  

/ ˈfɪstɪˌkʌfs /

plural noun

1. combat with the fists

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Etymology

Origin of fisticuffs

C17: probably from fisty with the fist + _cuff ²

Explanation

Fisticuffs is the act of fighting, or boxing, with bare hands. A heated argument can sometimes end in fisticuffs, with both participants punching wildly at each other. If someone says to you, "Let's take this outside and settle it with some fisticuffs," it means you're likely to end up in a street scuffle. This seventeenth century word isn't too common these days, but it's a colorful way to say "fistfight." The word's form may imitate handiwork, or it might be based on the now-obsolete adjective fisty, "related to the fists," combined with the verb cuff, or "hit."

Example Sentences

The two men constantly circle each other, two clicks away from West Side Story–style fisticuffs.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2025

He engages in fisticuffs when the situation requires it.

From Salon • Dec. 13, 2024

When a onetime private detective sits down to question a former spy and confessed performance artist, you might expect some verbal fisticuffs, a bit of bobbing and weaving or defensive prickliness.

From New York Times • Oct. 19, 2023

Nearly every beat, every quip, every character dynamic and every outbreak of fisticuffs has its clear antecedent.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2023

A still, small voice reminded me to return good for evil, reminded me that my plans for the future do not include fisticuffs or expulsion.

From "Bronx Masquerade" by Nikki Grimes