face-off

[ feys-awf, -of ]

noun

, Ice Hockey.

1. the act of facing the puck, as at the start of a game or period.
2. an open confrontation.

face-off

noun

1. ice hockey the method of starting a game, in which the referee drops the puck, etc between two opposing players
2. a confrontation

verb

1. to start play by (a face-off)

Word History and Origins

Origin of face-off¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; noun use of verb phrase face off

Example Sentences

It is the first time the two teams will face-off since Sarina Wiegman's side lifted the European trophy on home soil.

From BBC

The unusually sedate gathering ended with Fury tickling the champion after the obligatory face-off.

From BBC

The face-off between Brown and Moreno is one of the most highly anticipated congressional races in the nation as the Democrats fight to retain control over the Senate.

From Salon

Regardless of her team's intent, Wednesday night’s face-off was never about Harris.

From Salon

Historically, the face-off between running mates hasn’t mattered in terms of the outcome in November.

From Los Angeles Times