tussling

A tussle is a brief, rough struggle involving grappling, pushing, and attempts to gain control. It can be physical or figurative, and as a verb, to tussle means to engage in such a struggle. The term is used to describe a short or informal encounter rather than a formal competition.

In sports and everyday life, tussling describes a contest for possession or a spontaneous grappling encounter. In team sports, players may tussle for the ball or for position; in informal settings, two people may tussle over a toy or space. The term also appears in reporting to convey a moment of close contest or disagreement without implying a full-blown bout.

Tussles vary in intensity. They can be light-hearted and playful or aggressive, and they are generally shorter and less formal than wrestling. While some tussles occur within the rules of a sport and end with a minor penalty or separation, others may be unregulated or occur outside organized competition, where safety and rules become a concern.

Safety and legality: In public or non-competitive contexts, tussling can lead to injuries and may be unlawful if it amounts to assault or battery. In organized sports, rules aim to minimize harm during contact and to penalize dangerous actions. The term is also used metaphorically to describe disputes or power struggles, such as political or policy tussles.

Etymology: The term has been in use since the 19th century, with origins that are not precisely documented.