Search Dictionary
Definition of battle

battle

/ˈbæt.əl/
bat · tle

Plural:battles
•
Past Simple:battled
•
Past Participle:battled
•
Present Participle:battling
JUMP TO:

battle Lexical Profile

battle Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A sustained fight between large organized armed forces.

Example

"The decisive battle altered the course of the nation's history and led to a lasting peace treaty."


2

A lengthy and difficult conflict or struggle, often of a personal, social, or abstract nature.

Example

"She faced a long battle with illness before finally making a full recovery."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for battle
Antonyms
View all antonyms for battle

• verb

1

To fight or struggle tenaciously to achieve a goal or resist an opposing force.

Example

"The community battled to save the historic library from being demolished by developers."


2

To engage in direct physical combat or warfare against an enemy.

Example

"The two rival armies battled fiercely throughout the freezing winter."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for battle
Antonyms
View all antonyms for battle

Word Nuance & Usage

A 'battle' specifically refers to a single, localized military engagement or conflict, distinguishing it from a 'war', which describes the broader, sustained state of armed conflict encompassing multiple battles.

• Rhymes for battle

Word Origin & Etymology

Middle English: from Old French bataille, based on Late Latin battualia 'military or gladiatorial exercises', from Latin battuere 'to beat'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Battle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/battle
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.