skirmish
|skir-mish|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈskɜːrmɪʃ/
🇬🇧
/ˈskɜːmɪʃ/
minor conflict
Etymology
Etymology Information
'skirmish' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'eskirmir,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'kirmir' meant 'to fight.'
Historical Evolution
'eskirmir' transformed into the Middle English word 'skirmisshe,' and eventually became the modern English word 'skirmish.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to fight or engage in combat,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a minor or brief conflict.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a minor or brief conflict or encounter, often between small groups.
The two armies engaged in a skirmish before the main battle.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/19 08:23