Crossword Genius

Small party conflict (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

skirmish

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue might be a double definition.

'small' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how one could define the other.

'conflict' is the second definition.
(I know that skirmish is a type of combat)

'party' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skirmish that I've seen before include "Minor fight or conflict" , "Encounter" , "Scrap" , "Minor short-term fight" , "offensive" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.