Prize-fighting generally refers to a combat or boxing match in which the winner is usually awarded a prize. However, there are several alternatives to the term that can be employed to refer to the same activity. Some synonyms for prize-fighting include pugilism, boxing, fisticuffs, brawling, punching contest, and pugnacity. Pugilism and boxing are traditional terms that are often used in the sporting world to refer to the sport of fighting with padded gloves and heavy equipment. Fisticuffs and brawling denote a more violent form of fighting that involves grappling, striking, and wrestling. Pugnacity means exhibiting an aggressive tendency or willingness to fight, and is often used to describe animal behavior.