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Definition of shadowboxing

shadowboxing

/ˈʃædoʊˌbɑːksɪŋ/
shad · ow · box · ing
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shadowboxing Lexical Profile

shadowboxing Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The practice of sparring with an imaginary opponent as a form of training or warm-up exercise, especially in boxing and martial arts.

Example

"The fighter spent twenty minutes shadowboxing in front of the gym mirror to refine her footwork."

2

Cautious, indirect, or superficial maneuvering aimed at avoiding direct confrontation or creating the appearance of conflict without substantive engagement.

Example

"After weeks of political shadowboxing, the two candidates finally addressed the budget crisis directly during the debate."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

shadow
shadowban
shadowbox
shadowboxing
shadower
shadowing
shadowless

Cite this Entry

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