bout
UK: baʊt | US: baʊt
n. a short period of intense activity or illness
n. a contest or match (e.g., boxing)
n. a spell or session of a particular activity
The word "bout" originated in the mid-16th century, likely derived from the dialectal English "bout" (a turn or bend), possibly influenced by the verb "beat" and the adverb "out." It originally referred to a turn or round in physical activities, later evolving to denote a short period of intense activity or a contest. The morpheme "out" suggests completion or externalization, reinforcing the idea of a defined segment of action.
He suffered a bout of flu last winter.
The boxer won his final bout by knockout.
She went on a shopping bout and bought three dresses.
After a bout of heavy rain, the streets were flooded.
The team prepared for their championship bout with rigorous training.