Definition of dogfight

The term "dogfight" likely originated during World War I. It's thought to come from the chaotic, unpredictable, and often desperate nature of aerial combat during that time. The phrase "dogfight" captures the idea of planes maneuvering like dogs in a frenzied fight, snapping and dodging in close quarters, often at low altitudes. This was in contrast to the more organized and strategic aerial combat that was envisioned prior to the war.