square off

verb

squared off; squaring off; squares off

intransitive verb

: to take a fighting stance : prepare to fight
also : fight

Examples of square off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Getting a deal done would arguably be even more difficult for Buffalo given that the Bills and Dolphins play in the same division (AFC East) and square off twice every regular season. Max Dible, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025 Intensity percolates around romance and creative pursuits when the sun squares off with Pluto. Usa Today, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025 For 40 minutes, the man squared off against the machine, discussing issues like the minimum wage, electric vehicles and education policy. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2025 The two teams will square off at noon in a match that will air nationally on ESPN. Ryan Finley, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for square off

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of square off was in 1837

Cite this Entry

“Square off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/square%20off. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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