Athlete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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athlete

[ˈaθliːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

professional sports

A person who is proficient in sports and other forms of physical exercise, typically competing in organized events such as the Olympics.

Synonyms

competitor, sportsman, sportswoman.

Examples of usage

  • He is a talented athlete who has won multiple gold medals.
  • She trains every day to improve her performance as an athlete.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A person who is skilled in physical activities, especially exercises or sports.

Synonyms

active person, physical fitness enthusiast, sports enthusiast.

Examples of usage

  • My brother is a natural athlete and excels in any sport he tries.
  • She has always been an athlete at heart, enjoying outdoor activities.
Context #3 | Noun

colloquial

A person who is energetic, dynamic, or competitive in their approach to work or other activities.

Synonyms

competitive individual, go-getter, high achiever.

Examples of usage

  • He approaches his job like an athlete, always striving for excellence.
  • She has an athlete's mentality when it comes to achieving her goals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'athlete'

The word 'athlete' originated from the Greek word 'athletes', which means 'contestant' or 'prizefighter'. In ancient Greece, athletes were highly respected individuals who competed in various sporting events as part of religious festivals. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include anyone skilled in physical activities. Today, athletes are celebrated for their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship across the world.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,516, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.