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

Example Sentences

Alas, they can’t agree on how to get it: fisticuffs or flattery.

From Los Angeles Times

We wander back wet, down to Castillo Square, down to the ghosts of Bar Milano, a stand-in for Bar Torino, and Café Suizo, where the fiesta unravels in insults, a love polygon and fisticuffs.

From Salon

He engages in fisticuffs when the situation requires it.

From Salon

In and out of the lineup down the stretch, Rempe — who didn’t fight much in the junior Western Hockey League known for toughness — wants to prove he can stick around for more than just fisticuffs.

From Seattle Times

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