scrummage

Plural: scrummages

Noun

• (rugby) the method of beginning play in which the forwards of each team crouch side by side with locked arms; play starts when the ball is thrown in between them and the two sides compete for possession
• An ordered formation of forwards, typically bending down, binding to one another with their arms, and pushing opponents shoulder to shoulder, in which each side aims to gain control of the ball; a scrum.
• A scrimmage.
• Dated form of scrimmage (“a rough fight”).

Verb

• To engage in an ordered formation of forwards in which each side aims to gain control of the ball, as described above.

Synonyms

scrum