How Do You Spell SKIRMISH?

1. A skirmish is a brief, unplanned and usually small-scale battle or conflict that involves a limited number of participants. It typically occurs between opposing forces, such as military units, but can also involve individuals or groups. Skirmishes tend to be spontaneous and lack the organization and strategic planning associated with larger confrontations. Instead, they often arise from unexpected encounters or clashes between opposing parties.

   In a skirmish, combatants may engage in armed or physical confrontations, using weapons or tactics suitable for a smaller scale conflict. These encounters usually occur in close proximity to one another, such as in a specific location or within a defined area, giving the skirmish a confined nature. Skirmishes can involve a range of activities, including exchanges of gunfire, hand-to-hand combat, or strategic maneuvering to gain advantage over the opponent.

   Skirmishes are typically short-lived, lasting for a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the intensity of the conflict. They are characterized by their relatively low casualties compared to larger battles or wars. Often, the purpose of a skirmish is to probe the enemy's strength, test their defenses, or disrupt their operations without committing to a full-scale engagement.

   The term "skirmish" is not exclusive to military contexts and can be used metaphorically to describe any brief or minor conflict or disagreement that takes place between individuals or groups in various settings, such as sports, politics, or social interactions.

2. • An encounter of a few men when they fight in confusion; a slight combat between detachments and small parties from the main bodies.

   • To fight slightly or loosely in small or detached parties.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SKIRMISH *

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The word "skirmish" originated from the Old French word "escarmouche" which meant a 'skirmish' or 'melee'. It was derived from the Old Italian word "scaramuccia" which also meant a 'skirmish' or 'curtain fire'. The word further developed from the Italian word "scaramuccia" which referred to a 'skirmish' or 'a small battle'. Ultimately, this Italian word came from the Arabic word "samar" meaning 'a quarrel' or 'a dispute'. The word "skirmish" has been in use in English since the late 14th century and is commonly used to describe a small-scale and often brief clash or conflict between small military units or individuals.

Idioms with the word SKIRMISH

Similar spelling word for SKIRMISH

Plural form of SKIRMISH is SKIRMISHES

Conjugate verb Skirmish

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