square off

verb

squared off; squaring off; squares off

intransitive verb

: to take a fighting stance : prepare to fight
also : fight

Examples of square off in a Sentence

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.
Like in recent years, the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers will square off for a pair of rookie games. Carol Schram, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025 Things to watch when the Packers square off with the Lions to kick off the NFL season Sunday. Jr Radcliffe, jsonline.com, 5 Sep. 2025 Newsom's poll numbers have risen sharply this year, helped in part by his decision to square off against the president over social media. Robert Birsel, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025 Each team will square off against two opponents from each of the four pots, including two from their own pot, across eight total matches – split evenly between home and away. Jack Bantock, New York Times, 27 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for square off

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of square off was in 1837

Cite this Entry

“Square off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/square%20off. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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