\Tour"na*ment\, n. [OE. turnement, tornement, OF.
torneiement, tornoiement, F. tournoiement a turning or
wheeling round. See {Tourney}.]
1. A mock fight, or warlike game, formerly in great favor, in
   which a number of combatants were engaged, as an
   exhibition of their address and bravery; hence,
   figuratively, a real battle. ``In battle and in
   tourneyment.'' --Chaucer.

         With cruel tournament the squadrons join. --Milton.

Note: It different from the joust, which was a trial of skill
      between one man and another.

2. Any contest of skill in which there are many contestents
   for championship; as, a chess tournament.