Has Been Spoiling for a Fight?

Especially argumentative or combative; eager to engage in an argument or a fight.

What is the meaning of spoiling for a fight?

: to have a strong desire for (something, such as a fight) They are spoiling for an argument. The team is spoiling for a rematch.

Where does the phrase spoiling for a fight come from?

According to Etymonline, to be spoiling for (phrasal verb): To be spoiling for (a fight, etc.) is from 1865, from notion that one will "spoil" if he doesn't get it.

Marcus Vance

Marcus Vance

Cybersecurity & Digital Privacy Researcher

Marcus Vance is a cybersecurity auditor and technology writer dedicated to educating the public about online safety, data privacy regulations, enterprise security, and emerging cyber threats.