toss-up

noun

ˈtȯs-ˌəp 

ˈtäs-

1

: something that offers no clear basis for choice

2

: toss sense 1c

3

: an even chance

Examples of toss-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Fewer than 20 seats are considered genuine toss-ups, according to analysts. — Lisa Mascaro, Fortune, 27 July 2026

In June, the Cook Political Report rated 18 races – 14 of which involve seats currently held by Republicans – as toss-ups. — Emily R. Condon, USA Today, 26 July 2026

Cook Political Report labeled the race as a toss-up ahead of the primary, but following the results switched its analysis to reflect a slight Democratic advantage. — Saige Miller, NPR, 22 July 2026

Games between elite teams are mostly 55%/45% or 60%/40% toss-ups, and contending programs like Texas or Georgia could rebound and win a title this year. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for toss-up

• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• buildup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup
• markup

Kids Definition

toss-up

noun

-ˌəp

: something that offers no clear choice

it's a toss-up who will win