set-to

1 of 2

noun

plural set-tos
Synonyms of set-tonext
: a usually brief and vigorous fight or debate

set to

2 of 2

verb

set to; setting to; sets to

intransitive verb

1
: to begin actively and earnestly
2
: to begin fighting

Examples of set-to in a Sentence

Noun they had a brief set-to about money, but they seem to have resolved it
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Bruce Springsteen has the support of his union in the latest set-to with President Donald Trump. Greg Evans, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026 The grizzled heads among them testified to many a hazardous chase or physical set-to with violators of Wisconsin’s fish and game laws. Dave Duffey, Outdoor Life, 26 Mar. 2026
Verb
The event had initially appeared set to resume after the disorder. Collin Binkley, Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026 Three candidates are vying to lead Chula Vista, San Diego County’s second-largest city, in the June primary, with the winner set to serve a four-year term atop a City Council that has been marked in recent years by sharp partisan division. Walker Armstrong, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for set-to

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1794, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of set-to was circa 1525

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Set-to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/set-to. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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