Challenger

/ˈʧæl.ɪn.dʒər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person or group that competes against another in a contest or competition.

The young athlete proved to be a formidable challenger in the national championship.

A person who questions or challenges an established idea or authority.

As a fierce challenger of conventional views, she often sparked debates in her lectures.

In the context of sports, a competitor who seeks to dethrone a champion.

The challenger will fight the reigning champion next month for the title.

From Middle English 'challengen', from Old French 'chalenger', from Latin 'calumniari' meaning to accuse or to challenge.

challenger approaches

A phrase used to indicate that a competitor is coming forward to compete.

self-proclaimed challenger

Someone who claims to be a competitor but may not have the credentials to back it up.

dark horse challenger

An unexpected competitor with a chance of winning.

challenge

To invite someone to compete or to dispute something.

competition

A contest between rivals or competitors.

A person who is particularly aggressive in competition.

He's such a challenger; he won't back down from any competition.

A newcomer who poses a risk to established leaders.

The new brand is a real challenger in the market.