affray

IPA

Dictionary definition of affray

A tumultuous and often violent public disturbance involving multiple individuals.
"The police swiftly arrived on the scene to break up the affray and restore order."

Detailed meaning of affray

It typically arises from a heated disagreement or confrontation between two or more parties, resulting in a chaotic and potentially dangerous situation. During an affray, physical altercations, shouting, and aggressive behavior are common occurrences. Such incidents may unfold in public spaces such as streets, parks, or entertainment venues, causing alarm and disruption to bystanders. Law enforcement authorities are usually called upon to intervene and restore order in an affray, ensuring the safety of those involved and preserving the peace within the community.

Example sentences containing affray

1. The police arrived to quell the affray in the city square.
2. An affray broke out during the protest, leading to arrests.
3. The late-night affray startled the peaceful neighborhood.
4. The bar fight turned into a chaotic and dangerous affray.
5. Bystanders called the authorities to report the affray.
6. The park affray was quickly brought under control.

History and etymology of affray

The noun 'affray' has its etymological roots in Old French and Middle English. It originated from the Old French word 'effrei,' which means 'fear' or 'terror.' This term was borrowed into Middle English as 'afrey' or 'affrey,' where it initially referred to a state of fear or terror caused by a tumultuous event. Over time, its meaning shifted to describe the tumultuous and often violent public disturbance itself, involving multiple individuals. 'Affray' came to signify a tumultuous brawl or commotion in a public setting. Its etymology underscores the connection between fear and disorderly or violent events in a public context, highlighting the disruptive and unsettling nature of an affray.

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Further usage examples of affray

1. The affray at the stadium marred the sporting event.
2. An affray erupted among rival gang members.
3. The pub owner called the police to disperse the affray.
4. The security team had to intervene in the affray.
5. The affray resulted in several injuries and arrests.
6. The brawl escalated into a full-scale affray.
7. The nightclub security personnel handled the affray well.
8. An affray occurred in the crowded market square.
9. The affray at the concert led to a cancellation.
10. The street affray disrupted traffic for hours.
11. Police officers arrived promptly to contain the affray.
12. Witnesses were interviewed to gather information about the affray.
13. The media covered the affray extensively.
14. An affray like this can have serious legal consequences.
15. The crowded nightclub erupted into an affray as rival gangs clashed in a frenzied brawl.
16. Witnesses to the affray provided conflicting accounts of who instigated the violence.
17. The news of the affray spread rapidly, alarming residents and prompting calls for increased security.
18. Several arrests were made following the affray, as authorities sought to hold those responsible accountable.
19. The affray left behind a trail of destruction, with shattered glass and overturned furniture littering the area.
20. The bar owner implemented strict measures to prevent future affrays from occurring on the premises.
21. The victims of the affray were treated for their injuries at the nearby hospital.
22. The affray served as a stark reminder of the simmering tensions within the community.
23. The footage of the affray went viral on social media, sparking a heated debate about public safety.
24. Residents organized a community meeting to discuss ways to prevent affrays and promote peace.
25. The local newspaper dedicated a front-page article to the affray, raising awareness about the need for conflict resolution strategies.