rough-and-tumble

Definitions of rough-and-tumble
  1. adjective
    characterized by disorderly action and disregard for rules
    “a rough-and-tumble fight”
    “rough-and-tumble politics”
    synonyms: bare-knuckle, bare-knuckled
    disorderly
    undisciplined and unruly
  2. noun
    disorderly fighting
    synonyms: dogfight, hassle, scuffle, tussle
    see moresee less
    type of:
    combat, fight, fighting, scrap
    the act of fighting; any contest or struggle
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘rough-and-tumble'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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