Fracas

Noun

Definition: A noisy disturbance or quarrel; an uproar.

Synonyms: Commotion, Uproar, Brawl

Antonyms: Peace, Calm, Silence

Examples:

The neighbors had a fracas that could be heard from down the street.
The politician's speech caused a fracas among the crowd.

Mnemonics:

Think of "fracas" sounding similar to "fractious" which means irritable or quarrelsome.

Etymology:

Origin:

French "fracas" meaning "a crash, noisy quarrel"

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the early 18th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Kick up a fracas"

Explanation:

To create a loud and disruptive argument or fight.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "fracas" with "fracture" or "frac-"

Explanation:

"Fracas" refers to a noisy quarrel or disturbance, while "fracture" is a break or crack in something, and "frac-" is a prefix used in certain technical or scientific terms.