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Definition of skirmisher

skirmisher

/ˈskɜːrmɪʃər/
skir · mish · er
Plural:skirmishers
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skirmisher Lexical Profile

skirmisher Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A lightly equipped soldier deployed in an irregular, open formation ahead or on the flanks of a main force to scout, screen movements, or engage in brief preliminary encounters.

Example

"The historical exhibit illustrated how a 19th-century skirmisher relied on agility and terrain cover rather than heavy armor."

2

A person who engages in a minor, preliminary, or informal dispute, debate, or contest.

Example

"As a seasoned political skirmisher, she excelled at quick-witted exchanges during parliamentary debates."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

skipper
skippy
skirmish
skirmisher
skirret
skirt
skirting

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the verb 'skirmish' (from Old French 'eskirmir', meaning to fence or fight lightly, of Germanic origin) combined with the agentive suffix '-er'.

Cite this Entry

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