Athlete

/ˈæθliːt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who is proficient in sports and other forms of physical exercise.
The athlete trained every day to prepare for the upcoming marathon.
A person who competes in a sport, especially at a professional level.
Her dream was to become a professional athlete in track and field.
An individual who participates in physically demanding activities and exhibitions.
The young athlete showed exceptional talent in gymnastics.
A person who has a high level of fitness and a strong body, typically developed through rigorous training.
As an athlete, he maintained a strict diet and exercise regimen.
Someone who takes part in a specific sporting event.
Each athlete represented their country at the Olympic Games.

Etymology

From Greek 'athlētēs' meaning 'competitor in the games' derived from 'athlon' meaning 'contest'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

professional athlete
An athlete who competes for monetary reward.
elite athlete
A top-level athlete who performs at the highest level.
amateur athlete
An athlete who competes for enjoyment rather than for money.

Related Words

sports
Physical activities that involve skill and often require competition.
training
The action of teaching a person or animal a particular skill or type of behavior.
fitness
The condition of being physically fit and healthy.

Slang Meanings

Jock
He's such a jock, always playing sports on the weekends.
Gym rat
She's a gym rat, always working out and improving her athletic skills.