fracas

UK: ˈfrækɑː | US: ˈfreɪkəs

Definition

  1. n. a noisy disturbance or quarrel; a brawl

Structure
frac <break>as <noun suffix>
Etymology

fracas = frac<break> + as<noun suffix>

  • frac (from Italian fracassare, meaning "to smash" or "break")
  • as (a noun-forming suffix, often indicating an action or result)

Etymology Origin:
The word fracas entered English in the 18th century from French, where it originally meant "noise" or "crash." It traces back to Italian fracassare ("to smash"), derived from fra- (an intensifying prefix) and cassare ("to break"). The term vividly captures the idea of a loud, disruptive conflict, mirroring the sound of things breaking.

Examples

  1. The political debate turned into a heated fracas.

  2. A fracas broke out at the bar after midnight.

  3. The children’s playdate ended in a minor fracas over toys.

  4. The soccer match was interrupted by a fracas among fans.

  5. Police were called to disperse the fracas outside the club.