punch-up

[ puhnch-uhp ]

noun

, Slang.

1. punch-out ( def 2 ).

punch-up

noun

1. informal.
   a fight, brawl, or violent argument

Word History and Origins

Origin of punch-up¹

1955–60; noun use of verb phrase punch ( it ) up

Example Sentences

Though discouraged when a pitched sketch failed, his punch-up jokes successfully made it to air.

From Los Angeles Times

It was in November 1975 that a clash with Leeds United at The Baseball Ground boiled over into a punch-up between Lee and his England team-mate Norman Hunter.

From BBC

“These guys have just been effing brilliant throughout my life. We’ve had our arguments haven’t we, Don? The odd punch-up now and again but I love you, and I love you, Mary.”

From Los Angeles Times

McCann is an entirely different story and the explanation for his punch-up wasn’t quite as compelling.

From Seattle Times

"You get to have a punch-up on a Saturday night. It was great fun. I thought it was the job for me."

From BBC

Related Words

• add to
• bolster
• boost
• build up
• buttress
• emphasize
• enlarge
• fortify
• increase
• shore up
• stress
• support
• underline