brawl
UK: brɔːl | US: brɔːl
n. a noisy, rough, or violent fight or quarrel
vi. to engage in a noisy, rough, or violent fight
The word "brawl" originated in the late 14th century, derived from Middle English brawlen, meaning "to quarrel noisily." Its exact earlier roots are uncertain, but it may be related to Old French brailler ("to shout, cry") or Proto-Germanic brallan ("to roar"). The word has consistently retained its core meaning of a loud, disorderly altercation, often physical. Unlike many English words with clear Latin or Greek roots, "brawl" belongs to a group of Germanic-origin terms describing primal human actions (e.g., "fight," "yell"). Its short, abrupt phonetics mirror the chaotic nature of the action it describes.
The bar erupted into a brawl after an argument over a football game.
Police were called to break up a street brawl involving dozens of people.
Historical records describe drunken brawls at medieval taverns.
The political debate turned into a verbal brawl between candidates.
He avoided the brawl by quietly leaving the crowded party.