toss-up

noun

ˈtȯs-ˌəp 

ˈtäs-

1

: something that offers no clear basis for choice

2

: toss sense 1c

3

: an even chance

Examples of toss-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This stubbornness could cost Republicans another seat, as the Cook Political Report has shifted the race to a toss-up over the scandal. — Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 11 Aug. 2026

In California, one toss-up race could determine leadership in the Central Valley. — Deputy Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026

Progressives did pick up a win in Michigan's one true toss-up district. — Saige Miller, NPR, 5 Aug. 2026

The University of Virginia's Center for Politics rates the race a toss-up. — Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for toss-up

• backup
• blowup
• breakup
• buildup
• checkup
• cleanup
• holdup
• hookup
• lineup
• lockup
• makeup
• markup

Kids Definition

toss-up

noun

-ˌəp

: something that offers no clear choice

it's a toss-up who will win