Sport Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚽️
sport
[spɔːt ]
Definitions
physical activity
Sport is a physical activity that involves a set of rules or customs. It may be competitive or non-competitive. Sports are played for fun, for exercise, for competition, or for a combination of these reasons.
Synonyms
athletics, exercise, physical activity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sport |
Refers to organized and competitive physical activities that are usually governed by rules and often engaged in by teams or individuals. Commonly associated with enjoyment, entertainment, and professional competition.
|
| athletics |
Linked specifically to track and field events, as well as other physically demanding competitive sports. Often used in educational and professional contexts related to high-performance and elite competitions.
|
| exercise |
Describes physical activities performed to maintain or improve health and fitness. It generally emphasizes personal health benefits rather than competition.
|
| physical activity |
A broad term encompassing any bodily movement that requires energy expenditure. Often used in health, wellness, and medical contexts, focusing on overall activity levels rather than specific exercises.
|
Examples of usage
- She enjoys playing sports such as basketball and tennis.
- Participating in sports can improve physical fitness and mental well-being.
engage in physical activity
To sport means to engage in physical activity or exercise, especially in a competitive or organized way. It can also refer to wearing or displaying something proudly or showily.
Synonyms
display, engage in, participate in.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sport |
This term is most commonly used to refer to physical activities or games which often have a competitive element.
|
| engage in |
This phrase is used for a formal and broader description of taking part in an activity or being involved in something.
|
| participate in |
This phrase describes actively taking part in an activity or event. It has a slightly formal tone and is commonly used in official or organized contexts.
|
| display |
Use this word when you want to describe showing skills or abilities openly for others to see. It often has a connotation of showcasing something impressive or noteworthy.
|
Examples of usage
- He loves to sport his new running shoes at the gym.
- The athletes will sport their team uniforms during the championship.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Sport has played a vital role in many cultures, serving as a way to build community and social cohesion.
- Olympic Games, originating in ancient Greece, symbolize not just competition but also a celebration of athletic prowess.
Psychology
- Participating in sports can boost self-esteem and improve mental health by promoting physical wellness.
- Team sports teach valuable life skills like cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution.
Technology
- Advancements in technology, including video replay and wearable fitness trackers, have transformed how sports are played and analyzed.
- Virtual reality is now being used for training athletes, providing immersive experiences without the physical strain.
History
- Historic records suggest that sports have existed for over 3,000 years, with evidence found in ancient civilizations.
- Traditional indigenous games served as social rituals and community events long before modern sports were formalized.
Origin of 'sport'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sport' comes from the Old French term 'desporter,' meaning 'to carry away' or 'to amuse.'
- Originally, it referred to any activity that involved fun, including games and outdoor activities.
- In Middle English, the term began to focus on physical activities and competitions.
The word 'sport' originated from the Old French word 'desport', meaning 'leisure', and later evolved to refer to physical activity. Sports have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, with ancient civilizations engaging in various forms of competitive games and physical contests. Today, sports encompass a wide range of activities enjoyed by people of all ages worldwide.
See also: sporting, sportscaster, sportsman, sportsmen, sportspeople, sportster, sportswear, sportswoman, sportswomen, sporty.