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

The race to represent Iowa’s 2nd District is rated a toss-up, according to the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. — Washington Post, 24 Oct. 2026

Earlier this month, election forecaster Cook Political Report moved the race from a toss-up rating to lean-Democrat. — Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026

Leading national election forecasters have classified the Kansas Senate contest as a toss-up. — Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026

Democrats are favored to win control of the House, while the battle for the Senate remains a toss-up. — Luke Fountain,lora Kolodny, CNBC, 22 Oct. 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