set-to

1 of 2

noun

ˈset-ˌtü 

plural set-tos

: a usually brief and vigorous fight or debate

set to

2 of 2

verb

set to; setting to; sets to

intransitive verb

1

: to begin actively and earnestly

2

: to begin fighting

Synonyms of set-to

Noun

• quarrel
• altercation
• dispute
• controversy
• disagreement
• fight
• argument
• bicker
• brawl

Examples of set-to in a Sentence

Noun

they had a brief set-to about money, but they seem to have resolved it

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The grizzled heads among them testified to many a hazardous chase or physical set-to with violators of Wisconsin’s fish and game laws. — Dave Duffey, Outdoor Life, 26 Mar. 2026

Into this unholy mess blunders Juan (Juan Amador), bearing the gushing stigmata of a violent set-to in a Sacramento bar. — Reed Johnson, Los Angeles Times, 28 Sep. 2023

Verb

An inflation report on Wednesday is set to provide the latest gauge of price increases as the Iran war pushes up costs for gasoline and other products. — Max Zahn, ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026

Stefan Bajcetic and Jayden Danns are likely to feature for the under-21s to build up fitness, alongside younger prospects Josh Sonni-Lambie, Josh Abe and Mor Talla Ndiaye while Owen Beck is set to stay after a setback in his recovery from injury. — James Pearce, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1794, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1