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Decathlon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decathlon

[dɪˈkæθlɒn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sports event

A decathlon is an athletics contest that consists of ten different track and field events. The events typically include running, jumping, and throwing disciplines, designed to test a range of athletic skills and endurance. It is most commonly held in two days, with five events on each day. Points are awarded for performance in each event, and the athlete with the highest total score at the end of the competition is declared the winner.

Synonyms

athletics competition, track and field event.

Examples of usage

  • He trained rigorously for the decathlon.
  • She won the gold medal in the decathlon at the Olympics.
  • Decathlon athletes need to be versatile.
  • The school's decathlon team practices every week.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first modern decathlon was held at the Athletes' Congress in 1886 in the United States.
  • Decathlon events originally included running, jumping, and throwing, showcasing a wide range of physical abilities.

Sports

  • Athletes compete in events like the 100m dash, high jump, and javelin throw, showing strength and endurance.
  • The decathlon is often seen as the 'ultimate test' of an athlete's versatility and overall athleticism.

Pop Culture

  • The decathlon has been featured in movies and competitions, illustrating the drama of multi-sport challenges.
  • World-class athletes like Daley Thompson and Bruce Jenner have become cultural icons due to their decathlon success.

Science

  • Studies show that decathletes possess a unique combination of muscle power, speed, agility, and stamina.
  • The diverse range of skills needed for the decathlon has drawn researchers' attention in sports science and physiology.

Origin of 'decathlon'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'deka' meaning 'ten' and 'athlon' meaning 'contest'.
  • It was first introduced to the Olympics in 1896 for men and later for women in 1984.

The word 'decathlon' originates from the Greek words 'deka' meaning ten and 'athlon' meaning contest or competition. It was first officially introduced as an Olympic event in 1912, designed to champion a diverse range of athletic abilities in one competition. The decathlon showcases the exceptional versatility of athletes who compete in ten varied disciplines, demanding both physical and mental stamina. The event's history has evolved over the years, with changes in the specific events included; however, its core structure remains focused on testing an athlete's overall capabilities across multiple sports. As a result, the decathlon has become one of the premier tests of athletic excellence.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,857, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.