(be) spoiling for
idiom
: to have a strong desire for (something, such as a fight)
They are spoiling for an argument.
The team is spoiling for a rematch.
Examples of (be) spoiling for in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
It’s never been more clear that the Democratic Party—both activist and rank-and-file wings alike—is spoiling for a fight.
—
Philip Elliott, TIME, 19 Mar. 2025
But the Administration is clearly spoiling for a fight.
—Ruth Marcus, The New Yorker, 18 Mar. 2025
Anyway, Dorit is again spoiling for a fight with Sutton at the Caviar and Kaftan party.
—Brian Moylan, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2025
Tacopina said the chain supported the defense position Ephron was clearly spoiling for a fight the night of the incident.
—Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for (be) spoiling for
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Philip Elliott, TIME, 19 Mar. 2025
But the Administration is clearly spoiling for a fight.
—Ruth Marcus, The New Yorker, 18 Mar. 2025
Anyway, Dorit is again spoiling for a fight with Sutton at the Caviar and Kaftan party.
—Brian Moylan, Vulture, 25 Feb. 2025
Tacopina said the chain supported the defense position Ephron was clearly spoiling for a fight the night of the incident.
—Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for (be) spoiling for
Cite this Entry
“(be) spoiling for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/%28be%29%20spoiling%20for. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share