toss-up

noun

ˈtȯs-ˌəp How to pronounce toss-up (audio)
ˈtäs-
1
: something that offers no clear basis for choice
2
3
: an even chance

Examples of toss-up in a Sentence

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.
Polling showed the Conservatives were up 20 to 30 points earlier this year, but polls published in early March and late February showed the race narrowing to a toss-up. Rachel Schilke, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Mar. 2025 But before the Butler trade, any game was a toss-up. Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 5 Mar. 2025 The animation category was a particular toss-up this year, given the strong performance of Flow this awards season. Mia Galuppo, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Mar. 2025 Cook lists two Senate seats, both of which are currently held by Democrats, as toss-ups — Georgia and Michigan. Jared Gans, The Hill, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for toss-up

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of toss-up was in 1812

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Cite this Entry

“Toss-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toss-up. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

toss-up

noun
-ˌəp
: something that offers no clear choice
it's a toss-up who will win

More from Merriam-Webster on toss-up

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