Definition
A noisy, disorderly disturbance or fight, typically involving a group of people.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun.
Synonyms
Brawl, altercation, commotion, scuffle, melee, ruckus, tumult.
Antonyms
Harmony, peace, calm, serenity.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | fracas, fracass |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
-
The party ended in a fracas when two guests got into a heated argument.
-
The police were called to the bar to break up a fracas between rival football fans.
-
The fracas in the courtroom was so loud that the judge had to stop proceedings and call for order.
-
After the concert, a group of fans started a fracas outside the venue, leading to several arrests.
Usage
The word “fracas” is typically used to describe a loud and disorderly disturbance or fight involving a group of people. It can be used to refer to any kind of noisy and chaotic situation, but is most often used in the context of physical altercations or brawls.
The word “fracas” comes from the French word “fracasser”, which means “to smash” or “to break”. This origin emphasizes the violent and destructive nature of a fracas. The word is often used to describe situations that are unpredictable and can escalate quickly, making it difficult to maintain control.
The word “fracas” can be used in both formal and informal settings, but is more commonly used in informal contexts such as news reports, tabloids, and fictional writing. It is also commonly used in sports reporting to describe on-field altercations between players.
The prefix “frac-” is a variation of the Latin word “frangere”, which means “to break” or “to shatter”. The suffix “-as” is of French origin and is used to form nouns. The word “fracas” is often used in conjunction with other words that describe the nature of the disturbance, such as “barroom fracas” or “street fracas”.
Overall, “fracas” is a useful word for describing chaotic and violent situations. Its French origin and Latin roots give it a historical and literary feel, making it a useful word for writers looking to add an extra layer of depth to their writing.