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Definition of dogfighting

dogfighting

/ˈdɔːɡˌfaɪ.tɪŋ/
dog · fight · ing
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dogfighting Lexical Profile

dogfighting Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The illegal and cruel practice of pitting two dogs against each other to fight in an enclosed pit or ring, typically for gambling or entertainment.

Example

"Animal welfare organizations work closely with law enforcement to shut down underground dogfighting rings and rehabilitate the rescued animals."

2

Close-range aerial combat between military fighter aircraft, characterized by rapid maneuvering at short range.

Example

"Early aviation history is filled with accounts of biplane pilots learning the aerodynamics of high-altitude dogfighting."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for dogfighting

• Nearby Words

dogear
dogfight
dogfighter
dogfighting
dogfish
dogfox
dogged

Word Origin & Etymology

The literal sense of pitting dogs against each other dates back centuries as a blood sport. The aviation sense emerged during World War I, comparing the rapid, close-range turning maneuvers of fighter biplanes to a fierce brawl between two dogs.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dogfighting. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dogfighting
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