149 Another Word for Skirmish? – Skirmish Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say skirmish differently? Here are other words for skirmish and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of skirmish

A skirmish is a short, sharp, and often intermittent fight or clash between opposing forces.

Etymology of skirmish

The word "skirmish" has its roots in the Old French word "escarmouche" or "escarmuche," which is derived from the Italian "scaramuccia," meaning a swift and secret attack or a brief skirmish.
The term has been used in English since the 16th century to describe a short, sharp fight or clash, often involving small or irregular groups.

Synonyms

battle fight clash encounter engagement conflict combat skirmish brawl fracas melee rumble scuffle tussle struggle struggle altercation broil dispute feud fray clash contest confrontation affray donnybrook free-for-all fracas rumpus shindig snafu commotion disturbance tumult uproar chaos turmoil bedlam mayhem pandemonium ruckus fracas.

Definitions

  • A skirmish is defined by Oxford Languages as a short, sharp, and often intermittent fight or clash between opposing forces, typically between small or irregular groups.
  • It can also refer to a verbal dispute or a brief, intense period of competition or conflict in a non-military context.

Usage Examples

  • The two armies engaged in a series of skirmishes along the border before the main battle.
  • The debate turned into a skirmish between the two candidates, with each trying to outmaneuver the other.
  • The rival gangs had a skirmish in the alley, but it was quickly broken up by the police.

Antonyms

truce peace harmony calm serenity tranquility accord agreement cooperation conciliation reconciliation compromise armistice ceasefire standoff stalemate detente appeasement pacification mollification placation concord amity friendship alliance coalition partnership.

Related Adjectives

military martial warlike belligerent hostile aggressive combative contentious disputatious argumentative quarrelsome fractious bellicose pugnacious truculent violent intense fierce ferocious savage brutal ruthless merciless relentless unremitting.

Related Nouns

war battle fight conflict combat clash encounter engagement confrontation altercation dispute feud fracas melee rumble scuffle tussle struggle campaign crusade invasion offensive defense siege onslaught assault raid foray excursion.

Related Verbs

fight clash encounter engage confront skirmish battle combat contend struggle strive grapple wrestle tussle scuffle rumble brawl feud dispute argue quarrel spar joust tilt parry riposte.
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