Athletes: meaning, definitions and examples

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athletes

[ˈæθliːts ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

professional sports

Athletes are individuals who participate in competitive sports and are skilled in physical activities. They often undergo rigorous training to improve their performance and strive to achieve excellence in their chosen sport.

Synonyms

competitors, players, sportspeople.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
athletes	Used to refer to people who are proficient in sports and physical activities, often at a competitive level. The Olympics gather the best athletes from around the world Athletes must maintain rigorous training regimens
sportspeople	A broad term to describe individuals who engage in sports, whether at an amateur or professional level. Sportspeople need to stay fit and healthy There are many challenges sportspeople face, such as injuries
competitors	Emphasizes the element of competition. Suitable for any field where people compete, not just sports. The race attracted competitors from 50 different countries Competitors in the chess tournament are extremely skilled
players	Commonly used to refer to individuals who participate in sports that involve teams or individual games. The basketball team consists of 12 players Professional football players often start training from a young age

Examples of usage

Many athletes dedicate their lives to training and competing at the highest level.
Athletes must maintain a strict diet and exercise regimen to stay in peak physical condition.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

Olympic Games

Athletes represent their countries in international sporting events such as the Olympics. They embody the spirit of sportsmanship and strive to bring honor to their nation through their performances.

Synonyms

Olympians, competitors, participants.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
athletes	Used to refer to individuals who participate in sports or physical activities, often at a high level of skill and physical fitness. It can refer to both amateur and professional sportsmen and sportswomen. Many athletes train for years to qualify for the Olympic Games. The school held a special event to honor their top athletes.
Olympians	This term specifically refers to athletes who compete or have competed in the Olympic Games. It conveys a sense of high achievement and honor. Only the best athletes in the world can call themselves Olympians. She dreamed of becoming an Olympian since she was a child.
competitors	Refers to individuals or teams who take part in a competition, not necessarily limited to sports. The word highlights the aspect of rivalry and contest. The competitors lined up at the starting line, awaiting the signal. All competitors must register before the event begins.
participants	A more general term that refers to anyone who takes part in an event, activity, or competition. It doesn't necessarily imply a high level of skill or competitiveness. All participants must check in before the race begins. The workshop had many participants from different backgrounds.

Examples of usage

The opening ceremony is a moment of pride for all athletes as they march under their national flags.
Athletes from around the world come together to compete in the spirit of fair play and camaraderie.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'athlete' comes from the Greek word 'athletes', which meant 'one who competes for a prize'.
In ancient Greece, athletes competed in the Olympics, which started in 776 BC and included events like running and wrestling.
The concept of athletics was deeply tied to physical education in ancient cultures, often seen as essential for a well-rounded citizen.

Psychology

Research shows that regular physical activity, common among athletes, can boost mood and reduce anxiety.
Athletes often develop a strong sense of discipline and focus, skills that can help in other areas of life, such as academics or careers.
Mental training techniques, like visualization, are commonly used by athletes to enhance performance and confidence.

Pop Culture

Movies like 'Rocky' and 'Remember the Titans' highlight the stories of athletes overcoming challenges and achieving greatness.
Famous athletes such as Michael Jordan and Serena Williams have transcended sports, becoming cultural icons with significant influence.
Athletes often use social media to connect with fans and share their training journeys, creating a sense of community.

Science

Studies show that elite athletes often have unique physiological traits, such as better oxygen efficiency and muscle composition.
Nutritional science has evolved to help athletes optimize performance through tailored diets rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.
Exercise science investigates the impacts of physical training on the body, leading to innovations in training regimens and injury prevention.

Literature

Athletes have been central characters in numerous literary works, often symbolizing perseverance and the human spirit.
Books like 'The Boys in the Boat' tell inspiring stories of teamwork and triumph in athletic contexts.
Many modern writers use the journey of athletes as metaphors for personal growth and overcoming life's obstacles.

Translations

Translations of the word "athletes" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atletas

🇮🇳 एथलीटों

🇩🇪 Athleten

🇮🇩 atlet

🇺🇦 атлети

🇵🇱 atleci

🇯🇵 アスリート

🇫🇷 athlètes

🇪🇸 atletas

🇹🇷 sporcular

🇰🇷 운동선수들

🇸🇦 رياضيون

🇨🇿 atleti

🇸🇰 atléti

🇨🇳 运动员

🇸🇮 športniki

🇮🇸 íþróttamenn

🇰🇿 спортшылар

🇬🇪 მოთამაშეები

🇦🇿 idmançılar

🇲🇽 atletas

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,276 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9273 solitude
9274 interfered
9275 migrant
9276 athletes
9277 repaid
9278 wrongful
9279 donations
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