Meanings
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1
noun
a formal combat or sporting contest in which two mounted opponents charge each other with lances
The first joust ended when one knight was knocked from his horse.
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2
verb
historical: to fight in such a mounted contest with lances
The two knights agreed to joust before the assembled court.
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3
verb
figurative: to compete, argue, or struggle with someone, especially for advantage or control
The candidates continued to joust over tax policy during the debate.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Middle English jousten and Old French jouster, from a Vulgar Latin verb based on Latin iuxta ("close to, beside"). The sense developed from coming close or joining in combat; the modern figurative verb treats verbal or political rivalry as a mounted contest.