melee

A battle fought at close range, (especially) one not involving ranged weapons; hand-to-hand combat; brawling.

A loud, confused or tumultuous fight, argument or scrap.

Lively contention or debate, skirmish.

Any confused, disorganised, disordered or chaotic situation.

Small cut and polished gemstones sold in lots.

(historical) A cavalry exercise in which two groups of riders try to cut paper plumes off the helmets of their opponents, the contest continuing until no member of one group retains his plume.

Of a weapon: used in close-range combat, e.g. a sword. Compare with ranged.

Of a character, using melee weapons.

(slang) To physically hit in close quarters, as opposed to shooting, blowing up, or other ranged means of damage. Often refers to the usage of a hand-to-hand weapon.