firefight

noun

fire·​fight ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌfīt How to pronounce firefight (audio)
1
a
: a usually brief intense exchange of fire between opposing military units
b
: a hostile confrontation that involves gunfire
2

Examples of firefight in a Sentence

a firefight between police and bank robbers
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The Queens officer was shot and killed in Rockaway, Queens, by an ex-con, who was also wounded in the ensuing firefight. Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 15 Nov. 2024 Tester appeared to regain some momentum late in the race after raising questions about Sheehy’s claim that he was shot during a firefight in Afghanistan and Democratic spending groups stuck by the incumbent’s side throughout the race. Ian Swanson, The Hill, 6 Nov. 2024 But Sal underestimates the scrap and loyalty of Oz’s gang of misfit toys, and when the firefight breaks out, Oz comes out on top. Andy Andersen, Vulture, 3 Nov. 2024 The wildfire threatened 3,500 homes and other structures and forced the evacuation of more than 10,000 people, according to Gov. Gavin Newsom, who said federal funds had been secured to help in the firefight. Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for firefight 

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of firefight was in 1899

Dictionary Entries Near firefight

Cite this Entry

“Firefight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firefight. Accessed 19 Dec. 2024.

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