infighting

noun

in·​fight·​ing ˈin-ˌfī-tiŋ How to pronounce infighting (audio)
Synonyms of infightingnext
1
: prolonged and often bitter dissension or rivalry among members of a group or organization
bureaucratic infighting
2
: rough-and-tumble fighting
3
: fighting or boxing at close quarters
infight intransitive verb
infighter noun

Examples of infighting in a Sentence

continued infighting has just completely robbed that political action committee of its effectiveness
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The party infighting has fueled fresh fears from moderate Republicans in Congress about exactly how much the GOP can get done before the midterms, with lawmakers set to go on an extended recess at the end of next month. Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 30 June 2026 In 1975, Ellenberger, Nicholson and other lesbians in a group known as the Drastic Dykes split from the CWC due to infighting. Laura Horne, Charlotte Observer, 30 June 2026 During the Biden administration, the DSA hemorrhaged members amid sectarian infighting, especially over Palestine. Michelle Goldberg, Mercury News, 27 June 2026 The trade minister’s remarks offer the clearest picture yet of how Dakar could resolve the debt crisis after months of political infighting. Jenny Vaughan, semafor.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for infighting

Word History

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of infighting was in 1816

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Cite this Entry

“Infighting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/infighting. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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