Fray/freɪ/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Intensity Required Use 'fray' to describe situations where tension and energy are high. The debate quickly escalated into a fray. Pro Tip 2/3Conflict Situations 'Fray' often implies a struggle where people are fighting or competing. Several teams entered the fray for the championship title. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use The term can be metaphorical, meaning to enter a competitive environment. New startups are eager to enter the fray of the tech industry.