Melee

usgb/ˈmeɪleɪ/
noun

A confused fight or scuffle that involves many people.

The peaceful protest turned into a melee when the police arrived.
Visual representation of "melee" - A confused fight or scuffle that involves many people.

Often appears as...

  • break into a melee
  • melee ensues
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "melee"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Sudden Escalation

A melee can erupt suddenly from a peaceful situation, indicating a quick, unexpected turn to chaos.

Illustration for Sudden Escalation
The parade was joyous until a melee erupted among the crowd.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Physical Conflict

A melee involves multiple people physically fighting; it's not just an argument or verbal dispute.

Illustration for Physical Conflict
The bar was calm until a heated argument turned into a physical melee.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Unplanned Chaos

Melees are typically spontaneous and disorganized, rather than a planned event or battle.

Illustration for Unplanned Chaos
What started as a strategic protest devolved into an unplanned melee.
Visual representation of the word "Melee"

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