Duel/ˈduːəl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Modern Metaphor Used metaphorically to describe any contest or clash, not necessarily physical. The chefs' cook-off was a friendly culinary duel. Pro Tip 2/3Non-lethal Connotation Modern usage implies competition, not an actual fight to the death. The debate became a duel of wits. Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Battles Can be used to describe intense arguments or exchanges. The courtroom witnessed a legal duel between the lawyers.