Early 1900s
Still common
Definition
A fight, argument, or altercation.
Example Sentence
"There was a proper stoush at the pub last night."
Where "Stoush" Comes From
"Stoush" likely comes from British dialect or boxing slang for a heavy blow, adopted into Australian English by the early 20th century.
It became especially common in military and working-class Australian speech.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It covers anything from a physical fight to a heated political or workplace argument.
"Legal stoush" and "political stoush" are common extensions beyond literal fighting.
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