scuffle

[ skuhf-uhl ]
/ ˈskʌf əl /

verb (used without object), scuf·fled, scuf·fling.

to struggle or fight in a rough, confused manner.
to go or move in hurried confusion.
to move or go with a shuffle; scuff.

noun

Origin of scuffle

First recorded in 1570–80; see origin at scuff, -le

OTHER WORDS FROM scuffle

scuf·fler, noun scuf·fling·ly, adverb

Words nearby scuffle

Example sentences from the Web for scuffle

British Dictionary definitions for scuffle (1 of 2)

scuffle 1
/ (ˈskʌfəl) /

verb (intr)

to fight in a disorderly manner
to move by shuffling
to move in a hurried or confused manner

noun

a disorderly struggle
the sound made by scuffling or shuffling

Word Origin for scuffle

C16: from Scandinavian; compare Swedish skuff, skuffa to push

British Dictionary definitions for scuffle (2 of 2)

scuffle 2
/ (ˈskʌfəl) /

noun

US a type of hoe operated by pushing rather than pulling

Word Origin for scuffle

C18: from Dutch schoffel shovel