Bout: meaning, definitions and examples

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bout

 

[ baʊt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

informal

A party or celebration, typically characterized by loud music and dancing.

Synonyms

bash, celebration, party.

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Word Description / Examples
bout

This word is often used in the context of sports, especially in boxing, referring to a match or contest. It can also indicate a short period of intense activity or illness.

  • The champion won the bout in the third round.
  • She had a bout of flu last week.
party

This is a general term used to describe a social gathering of people for fun, typically involving food, drink, and entertainment. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • They invited everyone to their holiday party.
  • Are you going to the office party next Friday?
celebration

This word is more formal and is used to describe an event to honor or commemorate a special occasion. It can be used in both personal and official contexts.

  • The celebration of their wedding anniversary was grand.
  • There will be a celebration for the company's centenary next month.
bash

Used informally to describe a lively and large party or celebration. It carries a fun and energetic connotation.

  • We had a huge bash for her 30th birthday.
  • Jim is throwing a big bash this Saturday.

Examples of usage

  • Let's go to the bout at Sarah's house tonight!
  • The bout was so much fun, everyone had a great time dancing.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A short period of time or moment.

Synonyms

moment, period, spell.

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Word Description / Examples
bout

A competitive fight or match, typically in boxing or wrestling.

  • The boxing bout was thrilling.
  • He trained hard for the wrestling bout.
moment

A brief period of time, emphasizing something significant or noteworthy.

  • She paused for a moment to think.
  • That was a moment I'll never forget.
spell

A continuous series of actions or conditions, usually short and less formal than 'period'. It can also imply something magical or a brief rest.

  • He had a spell of good luck recently.
  • Let's sit down for a spell.
period

A length of time that can vary from short to long, often used to denote a more extended duration.

  • The Renaissance was a fascinating period in history.
  • She'll be away for a period of three weeks.

Examples of usage

  • I'll be back in a bout, just have to grab something quickly.
  • She experienced a bout of sadness after hearing the news.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To engage in a physical fight or boxing match.

Synonyms

box, duel, fight.

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Word Description / Examples
bout

Also used to describe a short period during which someone suffers from an illness or uncomfortable feeling.

  • She had a bout of severe anxiety.
  • He experienced a bout of nausea after the meal.
fight

A general term for a physical confrontation or struggle between people or groups. Can also refer to non-physical conflicts or arguments.

  • The fight broke out in the bar.
  • They had a fight about money.
box

Used when talking about the sport of boxing specifically; also can refer to the act of fighting in a boxing match.

  • He trained for months to learn how to box.
  • They decided to box professionally.
duel

Refers to a formal fight between two people, historically with weapons like swords or pistols, typically to settle a matter of honor. Can also be used metaphorically to describe intense rivalry or competition.

  • The duel was fought at dawn.
  • Their rivalry felt like an ongoing duel.

Examples of usage

  • The two boxers will bout for the championship title next week.
  • He decided to bout with his rival to settle the dispute.

Translations

Translations of the word "bout" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sobre

🇮🇳 के बारे में

🇩🇪 über

🇮🇩 tentang

🇺🇦 про

🇵🇱 o

🇯🇵 について

🇫🇷 à propos de

🇪🇸 sobre

🇹🇷 hakkında

🇰🇷 에 대해서

🇸🇦 عن

🇨🇿 o

🇸🇰 o

🇨🇳 关于

🇸🇮 o

🇮🇸 um

🇰🇿 туралы

🇬🇪 შესახებ

🇦🇿 haqqında

🇲🇽 sobre

Etymology

The word 'bout' has a rich history, originating from the Old French word 'bote' meaning 'exchange of blows' or 'attack'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a short period of time or moment. In the 17th century, it was also used in the context of a party or celebration. The verb form, meaning to fight or box, emerged in the early 19th century. Today, 'bout' is commonly used in informal contexts to describe a party, a short period of time, or a physical fight.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,630, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.