scrimmage

[ skrim-ij ]

noun

1. a rough or vigorous struggle.
2. Football.
   1. the action that takes place between the teams from the moment the ball is snapped until it is declared dead. Compare line of scrimmage.
   2. a practice session or informal game, as that played between two units of the same team.

verb (used with or without object)

, scrim·maged, scrim·mag·ing.

1. to engage in a scrimmage.

scrimmage

/ ˈskrɪmɪdʒ /

noun

1. a rough or disorderly struggle
2. American football the clash of opposing linemen at every down

verb

1. intr to engage in a scrimmage
2. tr to put (the ball) into a scrimmage

Derived Forms

• ˈscrimmager, noun

Other Words From

• scrimmag·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrimmage¹

1425–75; late Middle English, variant of scrimish, metathetic form of skirmish

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrimmage¹

C15: from earlier scrimish, variant of skirmish

Example Sentences

Too many missed blocks at the line of scrimmage and tackles in the open field.

From Los Angeles Times

Standing on the sideline, Harbaugh is often side by side with an official near the line of scrimmage and said he tries to voice opinions about officiating on Herbert.

From Los Angeles Times

After a two-game absence because of an ankle injury, Johnston recorded his first 100-yard receiving performance, catching four passes including a 66-yard touchdown that was the Chargers’ longest play from scrimmage this year.

From Los Angeles Times

Mack showed with his playmaking and relentlessness in an intrasquad scrimmage that he’s going to fight to remain a regular part of the rotation.

From Los Angeles Times

Scanning the players across the line of scrimmage, he examines body positioning and mannerisms that can provide a tipoff.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• scuffle
• skirmish