Showing results for fighting off.

fighting off

VERB

defend oneself

Synonyms

WEAK

beat off bottle up check contain control curb fend off hold at bay hold back keep at bay oppose put up fight repel reply repress repulse resist restrain retaliate stave off ward off

Antonyms

WEAK

give in give up surrender yield

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As Caine spoke, the president’s eyes appeared closed, as if he were fighting off sleep while standing up.

From Salon • Jan. 6, 2026

Queen Camilla has spoken for the first time publicly about fighting off an attacker on a train when she was a teenager, in an interview broadcast Wednesday.

From Barron's • Dec. 31, 2025

Cells at Work! - which has also seen its release postponed - is a live action movie based on a manga about human blood cells fighting off viruses.

From BBC • Nov. 17, 2025

America’s territories have long been a paradox for a country that got its start by fighting off an imperialist foreign ruler.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025

“She told me that if she didn’t survive, I should tell you . . .” Caleb chokes, then pulls himself up straight, fighting off tears.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth