passage of arms

passage of arms

obsolete A skirmish, conflict, dispute, or fight. There is no better man to have beside you with a sword in a passage of arms. It came to light that the elderly patron of the theater engaged in a passage of arms with the director about the issue, even going so far as threatening to withdraw her support.
See also: arm, of, passage
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

passage of (or at) arms

a fight or dispute.
See also: arm, of, passage
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • skirmish
  • skirmish with
  • skirmish with (someone or something)
  • he who lives by the sword dies by the sword
  • he who lives by the sword, dies by the sword
  • beside oneself, to be
  • beside yourself
  • beside (oneself)
  • beside oneself
  • cross swords with (one)
References in classic literature
place of honour, had been assigned to Brian be Bois-Guilbert, whose renown in all games of chivalry, no less than his connexions with the knights who had undertaken this Passage of Arms, had occasioned him to be eagerly received into the company of the challengers, and even adopted as their chief and leader, though he had so recently joined them.
Ivanhoe
You are now almost a man, since you have made your first passage of arms, and have acquired the right to go where you will without consulting me."
Twenty Years After
Then once more, ten days later, after some passage of arms with one of her daughters, she had remarked sententiously.
The Idiot
After this passage of arms, in which Benassis showed not the slightest sign of a wish to appear generous or to pose as a philanthropist, the supposed invalid entered his doctor's house.
The Country Doctor
To this little passage of arms the rest of the company sat as spectators.
Jungle
The brilliant Lady Stunnington tried a passage of arms with her, but was routed with great slaughter by the intrepid little Becky.
Vanity Fair