slugfest

[sluhg-fest]

noun

Informal.

1. a baseball game in which both teams make many runs and extra-base hits.

2. a boxing bout in which the boxers exchange powerful blows vigorously and aggressively with little care for defense.

3. an intense conflict or combat.

slugfest

/ ˈslʌɡˌfɛst /

noun

1. a boxing match in which opponents trade heavy blows

2. any sporting contest between powerful and evenly matched opponents

Word History and Origins

Origin of slugfest¹

First recorded in 1915–20; slug ² + fest

Example Sentences

If the conditions are as predicted it could make it tighter, but if it goes down to a slugfest you would still bank on the Lions forwards winning it.

From BBC

"I want to get my hands on him and hope for a quick one but I've been training for a 25-minute slugfest."

From BBC

It has sparked a political slugfest between the ruling coalition and opposition parties, with each side accusing the other of playing political games.

From BBC

On France's last visit to Dublin two years ago, Ireland won an enthralling slugfest, now regularly mentioned in 'greatest Six Nations games' conversations.

From BBC

It was a fitting conclusion to a frantic, scrappy slugfest, which featured plenty of mistakes, but no shortage of drama.

From BBC

Related Words

• altercation 
• brawl 
• dogfight 
• fisticuffs 
• fracas 
• free-for-all 
• melee 
• ruckus 
• tussle