'scuffle' likely originates in Early Modern English as a formation from the verb 'scuff' + the frequentative/diminutive suffix '-le', producing a verb meaning a repeated or intensified action of scuffing.

'scuffle' developed from Middle English forms related to 'scuff' (e.g. 'scuffen'/'scoufen') and by the 16th–17th century took the form 'scuffle' in Early Modern English, giving the sense of a brief rough struggle.

Originally related to 'scuff' (to scrape, strike, or rub with the foot or to make a rough sound), it shifted to mean a short, rough struggle or a hurried, jostling movement.