Triathlon: meaning, definitions and examples
πββοΈπ΄ββοΈπββοΈ
triathlon
[ traΙͺΛæθlΙn ]
sports event
A triathlon is a multisport race that consists of three continuous and sequential endurance races. The most common format includes swimming, cycling, and running, completed in that order. Triathlons vary in distance; often, they are categorized into short-distance events like the sprint triathlon, and longer ones like the Olympic, Half-Ironman, or Ironman distances. Participants in a triathlon, known as triathletes, face the challenge of competing in all three disciplines, which tests their versatility and endurance.
Synonyms
endurance event, multisport race, tri-sport competition
Examples of usage
- She trained hard for her first triathlon.
- The annual city triathlon attracts athletes from all over.
- He was thrilled to finish the Ironman triathlon.
- Triathlons are known for being physically demanding.
Etymology
The term 'triathlon' originates from the Greek prefix 'tri-' meaning 'three' and 'athlon' meaning 'contest' or 'race'. The sport itself has its roots in the early 1970s when the first modern triathlons were organized in California, with the inaugural event held in 1974. Initially, the competition format was quite flexible, with various distances and a combination of sports often chosen by the organizers. However, as the sport grew in popularity, standardized formats, notably the Olympic distance (1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, 10 km run), were adopted. The triathlon was introduced to the Olympic Games in the year 2000, further solidifying its status as a global athletic event and attracting millions of participants worldwide. Over the years, various mutations of the format, such as the Ironman, have emerged, pushing the limits of endurance and athleticism.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #36,268, 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.