Definition

Noun (plural only): 1. A fight using the fists; hand-to-hand combat with bare hands: The term refers specifically to physical fighting where the primary weapons are closed fists, often implying a brawl or scuffle rather than a formal sport. 2. (Archaic) The skill or practice of fighting with the fists; boxing: This older usage refers to the art or act of boxing itself.

Usage

The word "fisticuffs" is a plural noun and is treated as such grammatically (e.g., "fisticuffs were exchanged"). It is often used in a slightly formal, humorous, or old-fashioned tone to describe a fistfight.

Examples

• The argument in the pub quickly descended into fisticuffs.
• The two politicians engaged in a war of words, but thankfully it never came to fisticuffs.
• In the 18th century, fisticuffs was a common way to settle disputes.

Advanced Usage

• "To come to fisticuffs": To start fighting with fists.
  • Their rivalry was so intense that they often came to fisticuffs.
• "An exchange of fisticuffs": A brief fight or scuffle involving punches.
  • The disagreement resulted in a brief exchange of fisticuffs before they were separated.

Variants and Related Words

• Fistic (adjective, archaic): Relating to boxing or fighting with the fists.
  • He was known for his fistic prowess.

Synonyms

• Brawl: A rough or noisy fight, often involving a group.
• Scuffle: A short, confused fight or struggle at close quarters.
• Fistfight: A fight with bare fists.
• Punch-up (informal, chiefly British): A fight with fists.

Antonyms

• Reconciliation
• Truce
• Peace

Idioms and Phrases

• "Settle something with fisticuffs": To resolve a dispute by fighting with fists.
  • In the old days, men would often settle their differences with fisticuffs.

Noun

1. fighting with the fists
2. a fight with bare fists