Pentathlete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pentathlete
[ˈpɛnθəˌθiːt ]
Definition
sports competition
A pentathlete is an athlete who participates in a pentathlon, which is a sporting event comprising five different disciplines. The modern pentathlon includes fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, and a combined event of pistol shooting and cross-country running. These athletes require a diverse skill set to excel in each of the five events.
Synonyms
multi-sport athlete, pentathlon competitor.
Examples of usage
- The pentathlete trained rigorously to improve her swimming skills.
- During the Olympics, the pentathlete showcased her versatility across multiple sports.
- He became a professional pentathlete after years of dedicated training.
- As a pentathlete, she had to balance her time between five different sports.
Translations
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Origin of 'pentathlete'
The word 'pentathlete' originates from the Greek word 'pentathlon,' which itself is a combination of 'pente,' meaning 'five,' and 'athlon,' meaning 'contest' or 'race.' The event was part of the ancient Olympic Games, where it was designed to test a competitor's skill across multiple disciplines. The modern pentathlon was introduced in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, created by Baron Pierre de Coubertin as a means of simulating the experience of a soldier in the field. The pentathlon has evolved since then, with its disciplines reflecting a need for versatility and endurance.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,077, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.