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

The 2026 midterm elections are set to become the most expensive on record, as Republicans pour cash into battleground races to defy history and maintain control of Congress. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 26 Oct. 2026

At a polling station in Rio de Janeiro, the voting machines had already been switched off minutes after polls were set to close and couldn't be turned back on. — Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1794, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1