Boxing glove Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boxing glove

[ˈbɒksɪŋ ɡlʌv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sport equipment

A padded glove worn by a boxer to protect the hands and cushion the impact on the opponent.

Synonyms

fighting glove, mitt, punching glove.

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Word Description / Examples
boxing glove

Used in the sport of boxing to protect the hands of the fighter and to soften the impact of punches.

  • He laced up his boxing gloves before stepping into the ring.
  • Boxing gloves are essential for both training and professional matches.
punching glove

Less commonly used term, can be used interchangeably with boxing gloves but may sometimes refer to gloves designed specifically for punching, not necessarily for formal boxing matches.

  • His punching gloves were worn out from hours of training.
  • She bought a new pair of punching gloves for her kickboxing class.
fighting glove

A general term that can refer to gloves used in various combat sports, not specifically boxing.

  • Different martial arts require different types of fighting gloves.
  • Her fighting gloves were custom-made for the tournament.
mitt

Typically refers to a type of glove used for training in boxing, often by a coach to help a boxer practice punches.

  • The coach held the mitts while the boxer practiced her jabs.
  • Boxing mitts are crucial for developing accurate punches.

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to put on your boxing gloves before entering the ring.
  • She threw a punch with her boxing glove, but he dodged it skillfully.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports History

  • In the 18th century, bare-knuckle fighting was common; gloves weren't introduced until later to prevent injuries.
  • Boxing gloves were first used in 1743 by Jack Broughton, a famous English pugilist who aimed to protect fighters.

Pop Culture

  • Boxing gloves are often depicted in movies and shows to represent strength and the struggle for victory.
  • Famous boxers like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson have used iconic gloves that became part of their legacy.

Science

  • The cushioning in boxing gloves is typically made from foam or gel to absorb impact and distribute force when hitting.
  • Studies show that using gloves reduces the risk of injury not just for the opponent but also for the boxers themselves.

Psychology

  • Wearing boxing gloves may enhance a boxer's confidence, as it represents both protection and readiness to compete.
  • The ritual of putting on gloves can help boxers mentally prepare and focus before a match, impacting their performance.

Origin of 'boxing glove'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'glove' comes from the Old English 'glofa', which means a covering for the hand.
  • The word 'boxing' traces back to the Latin word 'pugil', meaning a boxer or fighter.

The term 'boxing glove' originated in the late 17th century in England. Initially, boxers used bare-knuckle fighting, but as the sport evolved, the need for hand protection became evident. Boxing gloves were introduced to decrease the risk of injuries to both the boxer wearing them and their opponent. Over the years, improvements in materials and design have enhanced the safety and effectiveness of boxing gloves in the sport.