prizefight

noun

prize·​fight ˈprīz-ˌfīt How to pronounce prizefight (audio)
: a professional boxing match

Examples of prizefight 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.
Volatility spiked, headlines swirled, and the bulls and bears slugged it out in a market that’s starting to feel more like a prizefight than a leisurely bull run. — Adam Sarhan, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025 The auction room now resembles a political rally crossed with a luxury skybox at a prizefight. — Jerry Saltz, Vulture, 21 May 2026 The Royal Parks noted on its website that the hill historically was a place where duels and prizefights were once fought. — San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Jan. 2024 One hundred years ago, when enthusiasm for the country’s 150th anniversary was fading, a prizefight was held to help revive the celebration. — Theodore R. Johnson, Washington Post, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for prizefight

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "public sporting contest between two opponents," from prise, price, prize "sporting contest usually between two opponents, as a fencing or wrestling match" + fight entry 2, after prizefighter

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prizefight was in 1929

Rhymes for prizefight

See All Rhymes for prizefight

Browse Nearby Words

prize crew
prizefight
prizefighter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

prizefight

noun
prize·​fight ˈprīz-ˌfīt How to pronounce prizefight (audio)
: a contest between professional boxers for pay
prizefighter
-ər How to pronounce prizefight (audio)
noun
prizefighting
-iŋ
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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