The practice, art, or skill of defending oneself; self-defence. Now chiefly in art (also science) of defence: a particular discipline, method, or…

Fighting with the fists; boxing.

In wider sense: (see quot. 1692).

The action of fighting with the fists; (now) esp. this activity as a sport, in which two boxers wearing padded gloves attempt to score points or…

Any system of techniques for defending oneself against an assailant. Cf. defence, n. 4.

(with the) boxing (cf. noble science, n.).

The art or sport of fighting with the fists; boxing. Now rare.

A space, originally defined by a circle of spectators, now within a roped square on a raised platform, for a boxing match, wrestling match, etc. Also…

More fully noble science of defence. Boxing. Cf. noble art n. at noble, adj. n.1compounds 2. Now rare.

The art, sport, or practice of fighting with fists; boxing. Also figurative.

The action of fighting or encountering in a special manner (see the verb) on the part of cocks and pugilists. Also transferred, skirmishing.

the sweet science:†(a) music, esp. regarded as technical skill which gives pleasure or enjoyment (cf. science, n. 3a) (obsolete); (b) slang (also…

the fancy: collect. for those who ‘fancy’ a particular amusement or pursuit. The art of boxing; pugilism. Also, sporting in general.

= pugilism, n. Also figurative.

Pugilistic performances.

The hand clenched or closed tightly, with the fingers doubled into the palm. Used occasionally for: †(a) A blow with the fist (obsolete); (b) the…

Fighting; boxing. Also attributive. Also transferred in gen. use.

(a) a circular entrenchment; (b) needlework executed with rings; (c) performance in the boxing or wrestling ring.

Boxing. A declaration made by a referee that a fight is invalid as a contest and hence has no result, esp. because of a perceived lack of effort by…