RENCOUNTER (3)

Ren‐coun″ter, n. [[F. rencontre, from renconter to meet.]] 1. 1. A meeting of two persons or bodies; a collision; especially, a meeting in opposition or contest; a combat, action, or engagement.
The justling chiefs in rude rencounter join. Granville. 2. 2. A causal combat or action; a sudden contest or fight without premeditation, as between individuals or small parties.
The confederates should . . . outnumber the enemy in all rencounters and engagements. Addison. Syn. — Combat; fight; conflict; collision; clash.