tussle
verb (used without object)
to struggle or fight roughly or vigorously; wrestle; scuffle.
tussling
-
present participleof tussle.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Four victories in as many games has City sitting joint-top of the Premier League alongside Arsenal, and the early signs suggest those two sides will be the ones tussling for the title once more.
From BBC ● Sep. 15, 2026
His attentiveness will be closely watched in the Maduro case, as tussling between the defense and prosecution has already threatened to draw out proceedings.
From Barron's ● Mar. 24, 2026
Detroit has spent the season griping with referees, tussling with opponents and piling up 66 technicals, by far the highest number in the league.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 4, 2026
Defenders are grappling with attackers, and attackers are tussling with defenders.
From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2026
Takumi couldn’t believe it either, and he walked over to me, tussling my hair with his hand, and started rapping to Alaska.
From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green
