slugfest

American  

[sluhg-fest] / ˈslʌgˌfɛst /

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.

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slugfest British  

/ ˈslʌɡˌfɛst /

noun

1. a boxing match in which opponents trade heavy blows

2. any sporting contest between powerful and evenly matched opponents

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Etymology

Origin of slugfest

First recorded in 1915–20; slug ² + fest

Example Sentences

McKenzie kicked a penalty to restore the visitors' lead as the game turned into a midfield slugfest which had a distinct end-of-season tang to it.

From Barron's

In a captivating slugfest on a fast and bouncy pitch in Perth, England were bundled out for 172, only to reduce Australia to 123-9.

From BBC

She’s remained on top as technology like foam injected composite rackets has lifted pickleball from Tupperware flurries to intense athletic slugfests.

From The Wall Street Journal

Despite taking all of his practice reps that week at center, Miller stepped in at guard and didn’t just hold it together — he elevated the o-line in a low-scoring slugfest against a tough Nebraska defense.

From Los Angeles Times

He will leave behind an intensely partisan, politicized court system in which elections are brutal slugfests.

From Salon

Related Words

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