scuffle

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scuf·fle / ˈskəfəl/ • n. 1. a short, confused fight or struggle at close quarters: there were minor scuffles with police.2. an act or sound of moving in a hurried, confused, or shuffling manner: he heard the scuffle of feet.• v. [intr.] 1. engage in a short, confused fight or struggle at close quarters: the teacher noticed two students scuffling in the corridor.2. move in a hurried, confused, or awkward way, making a rustling or shuffling sound: a drenched woman scuffled through the doorway. ∎  [tr.] (of an animal or person) move (something) in a scrambling or confused manner: the rabbit struggled free, scuffling his front paws.

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