Prizefighter: meaning, definitions and examples

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prizefighter

 

[ˈpraɪzˌfaɪ.tər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

boxing

A prizefighter is a professional boxer who competes for money and titles.

Synonyms

fighter, professional boxer, pugilist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prizefighter

When referring to a boxer who competes professionally, often with monetary rewards for winning. The term can have a slightly historical or classic tone.

  • He became the most renowned prizefighter of his era
  • The young man dreamed of being a prizefighter and winning championship belts
professional boxer

Use this term to specifically describe someone who boxes as their profession, with an emphasis on their career and dedication to the sport.

  • He trained for years to become a professional boxer
  • The professional boxer won the championship after a grueling match
fighter

This term can be used broadly to describe anyone who fights in various contexts, not necessarily boxing. It can describe someone who battles in different sports or situations, including mixed martial arts or metaphorically fights against difficulties.

  • She is a fighter, never giving up despite the challenges she faces
  • The mixed martial arts fighter is preparing for her next big match
pugilist

This is a more formal and somewhat archaic term for a boxer. It might be used in literature or in a historical context.

  • The story is about a famous pugilist who fought in the early 20th century
  • As a young pugilist, he traveled the world competing in various matches

Examples of usage

  • He started his career as a prizefighter in small local tournaments.
  • The young prizefighter quickly rose to fame with his impressive knockouts.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'prizefighter' originated in the 18th century when boxing matches offered prizes for winners.
  • Before it was called 'prizefighting', the sport was often referred to as 'pugilism', which comes from the Latin word 'pugil', meaning 'boxer'.

Cultural Impact

  • Prizefighters have been depicted in numerous films and books, reflecting their role in popular culture, like 'Rocky' and 'Raging Bull'.
  • The famous boxer Muhammad Ali not only excelled in the ring but also became a cultural icon for social justice, changing the perception of prizefighters.

Historical Significance

  • In the early 20th century, heavyweight champions like Jack Dempsey and Joe Louis became national heroes, influencing the spirit of the American public during challenging times.
  • The sport transitioned from bare-knuckle fighting to gloved contests in the late 19th century, marking a significant change in the safety and structure of prizefighting.

Legal Aspects

  • Prizefighting regulations emerged in the 19th century to combat the violence and dangers associated with unregulated bouts.
  • Modern prizefighting is governed by different state laws and professional organizations, ensuring fighter safety and fair competition.

Training and Technique

  • Successful prizefighters typically dedicate years to training, focusing on skill development, fitness, and strategy to outsmart their opponents.
  • Boxing techniques include footwork, punches, and defensive moves, each requiring precision and practice to excel in the ring.

Translations

Translations of the word "prizefighter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 boxeador profissional

🇮🇳 पेशेवर मुक्केबाज

🇩🇪 Preisboxer

🇮🇩 petinju profesional

🇺🇦 професійний боксер

🇵🇱 zawodowy bokser

🇯🇵 プロボクサー

🇫🇷 boxeur professionnel

🇪🇸 boxeador profesional

🇹🇷 profesyonel boksör

🇰🇷 프로 복서

🇸🇦 ملاكم محترف

🇨🇿 profesionální boxer

🇸🇰 profesionálny boxer

🇨🇳 职业拳击手

🇸🇮 poklicni boksar

🇮🇸 atvinnuboxari

🇰🇿 кәсіби боксшы

🇬🇪 პროფესიონალი მოკრივე

🇦🇿 peşəkar boksçu

🇲🇽 boxeador profesional