Synonyms for
Spat
Definition
A small disagreement or argument.
Synonyms & similar words
tiff
spatter
spue
sprinkle
spew
ptyalise
bicker
skewer
spit
spitout
gaiter
applaud
pettifoggery
fuss
boo
ptyalize
acclaim
squabble
patter
bickering
pitterpatter
clap
dispute
quarrel
tiff
argument
fight
brawl
altercation
controversy
disagreement
clash
discord
squabble
wrangle
feud
fracas
scuffle
sparring
wrangling
exchange
collision
Synonyms by register
Formal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- a minor spat
- a brief spat
- a spat over
- a family spat
- a political spat
- a lovers' spat
- end a spat
Word family
Usage note
A 'spat' typically refers to a minor, brief argument or quarrel, often between people who are otherwise on good terms. It is generally considered less serious than a fight or a major dispute.
Example sentences
- Samantha and her friend had a spat when they both wanted to play with the same toy.
- I got into a spat with my sister because she didn't want to share her ice cream with me.
- The two politicians had a spat during the debate over tax reform.
- The couple had a spat over what movie to watch.
- My parents had a spat when they couldn't agree on where to go on vacation.
Quotes
I don't want to have a spat with you, but I do want to be honest.
I had a little spat with my brother when we were kids.
Thou shalt not be a victim. Thou shalt not be a perpetrator. Above all, thou shalt not be a bystander. - Aaron Feuerstein