skirmish
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1skir·mish
noun \ˈskər-mish\Definition of SKIRMISH
1
: a minor fight in war usually incidental to larger movements
2
a : a brisk preliminary verbal conflict b : a minor dispute or contest between opposing parties <the debate touched off a skirmish>
See Examples of SKIRMISH
- Skirmishes broke out between rebel groups.
- Violent skirmishes with the enemy continue despite talks of peace.
Origin of SKIRMISH
Middle English skyrmissh, alteration (influenced by Anglo-French eskermir to fence (with swords), protect, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German scirmen to protect, scirm shield) of skarmuch, from Anglo-French escarmuche, from Old Italian scaramuccia — more at screen
First Known Use: 14th century
2skirmish
intransitive verbDefinition of SKIRMISH
1
: to engage in a skirmish
2
: to search about (as for supplies) : scout around
— skir·mish·er noun
Examples of SKIRMISH
- Rebel groups are skirmishing with military forces.
- The presidential candidates skirmished over their economic plans.
First Known Use of SKIRMISH
14th century
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