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mano a mano

The definition of mano a mano is a Spanish expression that is defined as hand to hand and is used to refer to a face-to-face confrontation between two people.

(noun)

An example of mano a mano is when two people have a fist fight and engage in hand-to-hand combat.
An example of mano a mano is when two matadors take turns fighting bulls in the bullfight.

See mano a mano in Webster's New World College Dictionary

in or into direct, personal confrontation
a duel or other confrontation between two individuals

Origin: Sp, lit., hand to hand

See mano a mano in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. ma·nos a ma·nos (mäˈnōs ä mäˈnōs)

A bullfight in which two rival matadors take turns fighting several bulls each.
A face-to-face confrontation or competitive struggle: a mano a mano between the presidential candidates.

adjective

Being or suggestive of a face-to-face encounter or contest: a mano a mano duel between golf pros.

adverb

In direct competition: an industry gearing up to go mano a mano with a rival.

Origin:

Origin: Spanish

Origin: : mano, hand

Origin: + a, to

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