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Medalist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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medalist

[หˆmษ›dษ™lษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sports achievement

A medalist is a person who has won a medal in a competition, typically in sports. This term is commonly used to refer to individuals who achieve first, second, or third place in an event, as recognized by the medals they receive. Medalists are often celebrated for their skills and accomplishments in their respective sports.

Synonyms

champion, titlist, winner.

Examples of usage

  • She became a gold medalist at the Olympic Games.
  • The event honored local medalists for their achievements.
  • As a medalist, his story inspired many young athletes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In the Olympics, medals are awarded for first (gold), second (silver), and third (bronze) places, highlighting elite performance.
  • Some medalists, like Michael Phelps, have won a record number of medals, influencing future athletes' aspirations.

Cultural Significance

  • Medalists often become cultural icons, inspiring others to pursue goals in various fields, such as sports, arts, and academics.
  • In many cultures, receiving a medal is seen as a rite of passage, marking achievements and exceptional contributions.

Psychology

  • Achieving medals can boost self-esteem and create a sense of belonging in competitive environments.
  • The phenomenon of 'winner's effect' shows that winning, such as being a medalist, can lead to increased confidence and performance in the future.

Education

  • Some educational institutions recognize students as medalists in academic competitions, highlighting the importance of scholastic excellence.
  • Programs that emulate championship structures often see increased student motivation and engagement through the allure of becoming a medalist.

Origin of 'medalist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'medalist' comes from 'medal' and the suffix '-ist', indicating someone associated with or skilled in a particular area.
  • The term became popular in the 19th century as competitive sports began to award medals for excellence.

The word 'medalist' is derived from the noun 'medal,' which comes from the Latin 'medalia,' meaning 'that which is to be measured.' The concept of awarding medals can be traced back to the use of coins and the practice of commemorating significant events, achievements, or individuals with a physical token. The term 'medalist' began to be widely used in English in the late 19th century as competitive sports grew in popularity, particularly in the context of events like the Olympics. It signifies not just the physical reward of a medal but also the accomplishment and recognition that come with it, representing years of dedication and hard work in pursuit of excellence.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,645, 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.