slugfest

[ sluhg-fest ]

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.

slugfest

/ ˈslʌɡˌfɛst /

noun

1. a boxing match in which opponents trade heavy blows
2. any sporting contest between powerful and evenly matched opponents

Word History and Origins

Origin of slugfest¹

First recorded in 1915–20; slug ² + fest

Example Sentences

The issue has also turned into a political slugfest after Naidu blamed his rival and former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for the "desecration".

From BBC

While Glasnow stuck around to the end of Hernández’s dramatic win, the club’s three other All-Star hitters were all gone by the end of the three-hour slugfest.

From Los Angeles Times

In a real slugfest in Saudi Arabia, Hrgovic, cut above both eyes, was inspected by the ringside doctor who advised the referee to halt the contest.

From BBC

The compact grounds of the Caribbean are ideal for T20 cricket and England managing director Rob Key has said the World Cup will be a “slugfest” of six-hitting.

From BBC

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano are the co-main event in a rematch of their slugfest at Madison Square Garden two years ago.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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