free-for-all

noun

ˈfrē-fə-ˌrȯl 

: a competition, dispute, or fight open to all comers and usually with no rules : brawl

also : a chaotic situation resembling a free-for-all especially in lacking rules or structure

the press conference deteriorated into a free-for-all

free-for-all adjective

Synonyms of free-for-all

• brawl

Examples of free-for-all in a Sentence

during the play-offs, fans of the opposing teams clashed in the streets in several free-for-alls

it was a free-for-all when the doors to the arena opened and the crowd rushed in all at once

Recent Examples on the Web

The format is unlikely to affect the policy decision, and 19 participants is a large group for a free-for-all conversation. — Steve Liesman, CNBC, 22 July 2026

One of the country’s most exclusive bookings, a stay here really does feel like the ultimate indulgence, with access to its 80-label wine cellar and a food free-for-all anytime of the day. — Katie Lockhart, Robb Report, 16 July 2026

The championship match turned into a free-for-all with everyone trying to get their licks in before the official woke out of his slumber. — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 15 July 2026

Regulation is ending the free-for-all The old aftermarket free-for-all is quietly closing. — Sarwant Singh, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for free-for-all

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol

Kids Definition

free-for-all

noun

ˈfrē-fə-ˌrȯl

: a competition or fight open to all comers usually without rules

free-for-all adjective