bullfight

noun

bull·​fight ˈbu̇l-ˌfīt How to pronounce bullfight (audio)
also ˈbəl-
: a spectacle in which men ceremonially fight with and in Hispanic tradition kill bulls in an arena for public entertainment
bullfighter
ˈbu̇l-ˌfī-tər How to pronounce bullfight (audio)
also ˈbəl-
noun

Examples of bullfight in a Sentence

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 opera begins with a kinetic, frantic prelude in the form of a paso doble, the quick march often heard at bullfights. — Alex Ross, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025 In 2016, a 29-year-old matador was gored to death during a bullfight, the Times reported. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 6 Apr. 2026 Schwörer noted that in Spain or Portugal, the right-wing nationalists might defend the right to hunt and hold a bullfight. — Daniel Engber, The Atlantic, 22 Feb. 2026 Most revolve around the impérios, which are dedicated to the Holy Spirit and can last up to 10 days, with concerts, parades, and bullfights. — Gisela Williams, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bullfight

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bullfight was in 1788

Rhymes for bullfight

See All Rhymes for bullfight

Browse Nearby Words

bull fiddle
bullfight
bullfighter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bullfight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bullfight. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bullfight

noun
bull·​fight ˈbu̇l-ˌfīt How to pronounce bullfight (audio)
: a public entertainment in which people excite bulls, display daring in escaping their charges, and finally kill them
bullfighter noun
bullfighting noun

More from Merriam-Webster on bullfight

Nglish: Translation of bullfight for Spanish Speakers

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