Competition

/ˌkɒmpəˈtɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The activity or condition of competing.
The annual science fair is a competition that draws students from all over the state.
A contest or rivalry between individuals or groups.
She entered the baking competition to showcase her culinary skills.
The entities or individuals trying to win the same goal or objective.
The new store faces stiff competition from well-established retailers.
An event in which people compete for prizes or recognition.
He won first place in the mathematics competition held at his school.

Etymology

From Latin 'competitio', from 'competere', meaning 'to strive together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

healthy competition
A positive rivalry that encourages improvement and growth.
competition is fierce
There are many strong rivals in the field.
level the playing field
To make the competition fair by reducing the advantages some have over others.

Related Words

competitor
A person or organization that competes.
compete
To strive to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others.
competition law
Laws that promote or maintain market competition by regulating anti-competitive conduct.

Slang Meanings

Competing for attention or popularity.
The local bands are in a competition for the best gig this weekend.
A rivalry that often turns aggressive.
That group of friends has a competition going on about who can score the most dates.