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Definitions

melee

[mey-ley, mey-ley, mel-ey] / ˈmeɪ leɪ, meɪˈleɪ, ˈmɛl eɪ /


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 the Iranian motorcade left, demonstrators shouted "terrorists!" and surged forward throwing objects, with the police swiftly shoving them -- and the reporters behind -- backwards, as some tumbled over in the melee.

From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026

One indelible image of Metro Surge was of Bovino, emerging from an SUV into a wintry melee, like a general stepping onto a battlefield, and launching a canister that released green smoke at protesters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

They quickly detained the man, and a melee ensued as the group fought to stay together.

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

To avoid the melee on the cables, five climbers sought shelter in a cramped granite cave at the summit.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 15, 2025

He imagined the hornet turning on Deacon Hurd, and the general melee as he ran down the aisle, chased by the eager insect, hollering and swatting at the thin air.

From "Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy" by Gary D. Schmidt




Vocabulary lists containing melee