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toss-up

noun

ˈtȯs-ˌəp How to pronounce toss-up (audio)
ˈtäs-
1
: something that offers no clear basis for choice
2
3
: an even chance

Examples of toss-up 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.
In New Jersey, Representative Mikie Sherrill won by more than 14 points despite surveys showing a toss-up race. Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025 Meanwhile coach of the year is a toss-up between three managers who really stepped up to the task. Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 19 Nov. 2025 He has been regarded as one of the nation’s most vulnerable incumbents, and is one of 16 House races called a toss-up by the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, which analyzes congressional races. David Lightman, Sacbee.com, 13 Nov. 2025 The Horned Frogs will likely be sizable underdogs at BYU, and Houston and Cincinnati should be toss-up games. Jim Barnes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for toss-up

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of toss-up was in 1812

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Toss-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toss-up. Accessed 30 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

toss-up

noun
-ˌəp
: something that offers no clear choice
it's a toss-up who will win

More from Merriam-Webster on toss-up

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