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

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

Carabajal raised a swelling on her opponent's eye and the final round descended into a slugfest as Dixon's defences dropped - but she did enough to write another chapter in her remarkable story.

From BBC

Tired of the infighting and wary of another dragged-out brawl like the monthlong slugfest to replace McCarthy, few Republicans are backing Greene’s effort to remove Johnson, for now.

From Seattle Times

Florida Atlantic survived a slugfest with North Texas and came in at No. 20.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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