donnybrook
Americannoun
noun
Usage
What does donnybrook mean? A donnybrook is a wild brawl or a rowdy dispute. The word implies a big, riotous scene, especially one that unfolds in public. When it refers to a brawl, it usually means a chaotic free-for-all among many people in a crowded place. Donnybrook is sometimes capitalized. Example: After the game, a small argument in the parking lot between fans of the opposing teams turned into an all-out donnybrook.
Etymology
Origin of donnybrook
First recorded in 1850–55; after Donnybrook (Fair).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Daniel Rooney, the team’s director of business development and strategy, visited an amateur American football game featuring an Irish team during a visit to Donnybrook Stadium on Friday night.
From Seattle Times • Aug. 26, 2023
In 2017, players were withdrawn because of sevens commitments before we played France at Donnybrook.
From BBC • Apr. 21, 2022
The rule comes into effect for French visitors to Ireland on Thursday but it's not yet clear whether it will affect the Donnybrook game.
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2021
The festival continues through the week at various locations on the Lower East Side with a closing night party at 6:30 p.m. at Donnybrook, 35 Clinton Street.
From New York Times • May 31, 2012
It was an exciting scene, and Donnybrook was nothing to it.
From The O'Ruddy A Romance by Williams, C. D. (Charles D.)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
