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 Kalispell rally sought to boost GOP congressional candidate Aaron Flint, who is in a tight race for a toss-up House seat against Democrat Sam Forstag. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 15 Oct. 2026

The Senate race is the classic definition of a toss-up, and both candidates are starting to get their supporters to the polls in what will be one of the hottest turnout elections in the country. — Jack Fink, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026

But in western North Carolina, an open congressional seat became a toss-up after the Republican incumbent withdrew from the race. — Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2026

The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter rates the contest a toss-up, with neither candidate emerging as a clear favorite. — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 14 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