Affray: meaning, definitions and examples
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affray
[ əˈfreɪ ]
legal term
Affray refers to a public fight or brawl that causes terror or alarm to onlookers. It is a disturbance to the peace that can occur in various public places, usually involving at least two individuals. Affray is often prosecuted under public order laws.
Synonyms
altercation, brawl, disorder, disturbance, fight
Examples of usage
- The affray broke out in the street on Saturday night.
- Witnesses reported the affray led to several arrests.
- The bar's security footage showed the affray escalating quickly.
- During the affray, bystanders were frightened and called the police.
Translations
Translations of the word "affray" in other languages:
🇵🇹 altercação
🇮🇳 गड़बड़ी
🇩🇪 Rauferei
🇮🇩 keributan
🇺🇦 сварка
🇵🇱 awantura
🇯🇵 乱闘
🇫🇷 bagarre
🇪🇸 pelea
🇹🇷 kavga
🇰🇷 소동
🇸🇦 شجار
🇨🇿 potyčka
🇸🇰 bitka
🇨🇳 斗殴
🇸🇮 tukaj
🇮🇸 óeir
🇰🇿 жекпе-жек
🇬🇪 ჩხუბი
🇦🇿 dava
🇲🇽 pelea
Etymology
The term 'affray' originates from the Middle English word 'affraier', which means to scare or frighten. This word was derived from the Old French 'afrayer', stemming from 'a-' meaning 'to' and 'frayer' meaning 'to frighten'. The legal use of the term has roots in medieval English law, where it described actions that caused a public disturbance or threatened the peace. Over time, the definition has evolved but still retains its connection with public disorder. Affray is distinct from a simple fight as it emphasizes the impact on bystanders and public tranquility, making it a relevant term in legal terminology.