skirmish

A minor battle in war, as one between small forces or between large forces avoiding direct conflict.

A minor or preliminary conflict or dispute.

To engage in a minor battle or dispute.

An irregular fight, especially between small parties; an engagement, in the presence of two armies, between small detachments advanced for the purpose either of drawing on a battle or of concealing by their fire the movements of the troops in the rear.

Defense.

Any contention or contest; a preliminary trial of strength, etc.

Synonyms Rencounter, Brush, etc. See encounter.

To fight irregularly, as in a skirmish; fight in small parties or along a skirmishline.

To defend one’s self; strike out in defense or attack.

To be in a position of guarded and cautious attack; fence.