holmgang

noun

holm·​gang
ˈhō(l)mˌgaŋ
archaic
: a duel especially on an island

Word History

Etymology

Old Norse hōlmganga, from hōlmr small island + ganga act of going; akin to Old English gang act of going

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near holmgang

Cite this Entry

“Holmgang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/holmgang. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!