duel
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //djuːəl//
KK: /djul/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take part in a formal fight between two people, often to settle a dispute or challenge.
Example
The two knights decided to duel to prove who was the better warrior.
Tense Forms
Past: dueled
Past Participle: dueled
Conversation
Did you see how they duel in that movie last night?
Yeah, it was so intense!
I can’t believe they actually agreed to duel like that.
Right? It’s not something you see every day!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spar
fight
contend
Antonyms
reconcile
submit
yield
noun
Definition
A formal fight between two people, often with weapons, that is arranged in advance to settle a disagreement or prove honor.
Example
The two knights agreed to a duel to settle their dispute over the land.
Conversation
Did you hear about the duel that happened last weekend?
Yeah, it was quite the spectacle!
I can't believe they actually agreed to a duel over a silly argument.
transitive verb
Definition
To fight or compete against someone in a formal way, often with weapons, to settle a disagreement or challenge.
Example
The two knights decided to duel to prove who was the better fighter.
Tense Forms
Past: dueled
Past Participle: dueled
Conversation
Did you hear that Jake and Tom are going to duel in the park this weekend?
No way! That sounds intense, but also kind of funny.
I know, right? I can't believe they actually want to duel over a game of chess.
Root Explanation
Duel → It originates from the Latin word 'duellum' (meaning war or combat), which is derived from 'duo' (meaning two). The word 'duel' refers to a combat between two individuals, typically to settle a dispute or honor.
Memory Tip
Think of 'two' ('duo') people engaged in 'combat' ('duellum') — that's why a duel is a fight between two.
Visually Confused Words
due
del
dummel
dukely
duffel
drupel