Dueling: meaning, definitions and examples

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dueling

 

[ ˈdjuːlɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

combat between

Dueling refers to a pre-arranged combat between two individuals, typically fought with weapons in accordance with agreed-upon rules. Historically, duels were seen as a way to resolve disputes and defend one's honor. While often associated with gentlemen of the 17th to 19th centuries, dueling can be traced back to ancient practices. Although it is largely considered illegal and archaic today, the cultural implications and historical significance of dueling remain prominent in various societies.

Synonyms

challenge, combat, contest

Examples of usage

  • The duel was fought at dawn.
  • They settled their differences with a duel.
  • The concept of dueling has evolved over time.
Context #2 | Verb

to fight with

To duel means to participate in a duel, engaging in a formalized combat with another individual. This action may involve various weapons and is typically conducted following a specific set of rules. Dueling as a verb has historical associations with settling matters of personal honor, often leading to serious injury or death. In modern contexts, the term can also refer metaphorically to any competitive scenario.

Synonyms

battle, contend, engage

Examples of usage

  • They decided to duel at dawn.
  • The warriors dueled for honor.
  • He dueled with his rival.

Translations

Translations of the word "dueling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 duelo

🇮🇳 युद्ध करना

🇩🇪 Duell

🇮🇩 duel

🇺🇦 двоєборство

🇵🇱 pojedynek

🇯🇵 決闘

🇫🇷 duel

🇪🇸 duelo

🇹🇷 düello

🇰🇷 결투

🇸🇦 مبارزة

🇨🇿 souboj

🇸🇰 súboj

🇨🇳 决斗

🇸🇮 dvoboj

🇮🇸 einvígi

🇰🇿 дуэль

🇬🇪 დუელი

🇦🇿 duel

🇲🇽 duelo

Word origin

The term 'duel' comes from the Latin word 'duellum,' meaning 'war' or 'combat.' Over time, it evolved in Old French as ' duel,' referring specifically to a fight between two persons. Duels became particularly popular in Europe during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance when social etiquette and codes of conduct specified that honor could only be salvaged through a formal confrontation. Initially, dueling was not solely for matters of honor; it also played a role in resolving disputes over property and status. The practice reached its zenith in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in France and Britain, where notable figures like Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr famously dueled. As society evolved and laws against dueling were instituted, the practice diminished significantly by the 19th century, though it still captured the romantic imagination in literature and film.