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Brawling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brawling

[ˈbrɔːlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

fighting loudly

Brawling refers to engaging in a noisy and disorderly fight, typically involving multiple participants. This type of confrontation often occurs in public settings, where emotions run high, resulting in a chaotic scene. Brawls can arise from various situations, including disagreements, drunkenness, or competition among groups. They are often characterized by the use of physical force and can lead to serious injuries or legal repercussions.

Synonyms

battling, fighting, quarreling, scuffling.

Examples of usage

  • The brawling patrons were kicked out of the bar.
  • The two rival groups ended up brawling in the street.
  • After the game, fans started brawling in the parking lot.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Brawling often features in various forms of entertainment, like movies and video games, often depicting conflict or heroism.
  • In some cultures, brawling events, such as bare-knuckle boxing or street fights, are seen as tests of strength and character.

Historical Context

  • Brawling has long been associated with tavern culture, where disputes often led to physical confrontations.
  • Historical records indicate that many famous literary figures, such as Shakespeare, referenced brawling in their plays, emphasizing its prevalence in society.

Psychology

  • Studies show that male aggression often manifests as brawling due to social expectations surrounding masculinity.
  • Brawling can also be a way for individuals or groups to establish dominance or resolve conflicts in a primal manner.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary slang, 'brawl' often refers to unruly street fights, especially among large groups.
  • The term can also apply in sports, where players engage in fights on the field or rink, often bringing heightened emotion to the game.

Origin of 'brawling'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Middle English word 'brawlen,' which means to fight or struggle.
  • It has roots in Old English and was influenced by terms meaning 'to quarrel or skirmish' from various Germanic languages.

The word 'brawling' has its origins in the Middle English word 'brawlen', which means 'to quarrel or fight'. This word is possibly derived from the Old English 'bræwan', meaning 'to break or burst', though its exact etymology is somewhat uncertain. The term has been used to describe physical altercations since at least the 14th century and has evolved to encompass noisy and often unruly fights. Brawls have often been associated with public disorder, such as tavern brawls or street fights, especially during the turbulent times of the Middle Ages and into the modern era. Over time, the context of brawling has broadened, but it continues to evoke images of chaotic and often reckless confrontations.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,345, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.