head-to-head

adverb or adjective

ˈhed-tə-ˈhed How to pronounce head-to-head (audio)
Synonyms of head-to-headnext
: in a direct confrontation or encounter usually between individuals
teams competing head-to-head for the championship

Synonyms of head-to-head

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Examples of head-to-head in a Sentence

it's fitting that the two best teams during the regular season will go head-to-head for the championship
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.
Ryan Reynolds scored a vital victory over Hugh Jackman in their head-to-head race in F50 catamarans. — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2026 The two candidates have gone head-to-head in recent weeks over support of police and plans to fight corruption in what’s sure to be one of the top races to watch this fall. — Keely Doll, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Sep. 2026 The series will see 16 people compete head-to-head for a $250,000 cash prize. — Peter White, Deadline, 31 Aug. 2026 In the end, two family businesses — Innescas Sweets of Europe and The Sweet Spoon Bakery — went head-to-head to win your hearts. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for head-to-head

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of head-to-head was in 1841

Rhymes for head-to-head

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Browse Nearby Words

headtire
head-to-head
head tone
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Cite this Entry

“Head-to-head.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/head-to-head. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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