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

She’ll drop jokes, bits and digs in between the projected slugfest between “One Battle After Another,” “Sentimental Value” and “Sinners.”

From Salon

In an enthralling game on Sunday night, the 49ers earned a thrilling 42-38 victory from a toe-to-toe slugfest with the Chicago Bears.

From BBC

The rhetorical slugfest is growing increasingly ugly to watch.

From Salon

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

Related Words

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