Athleticism Meaning

/æθˈlɛtɪsɪzəm/
C2

Definition, CEFR level C2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.

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nounThe state of being an athlete, or of taking part in athletic events.

nounA show of athletic prowess.

The athlete's athleticism was impressive.
Athleticism requires dedication and practice.
The young gymnast displayed incredible athleticism during her routine.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The coach praised her natural ____ during the intense training session.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The players demonstrated great ____ during the whole football match.

Etymology tree Ancient Greek ᾱ̓θλητῐκός (āthlētĭkós)bor. Latin āthlēticuslbor. Middle French athletiquebor. English athletic Proto-Indo-European *-id- Proto-Indo-European *-yéti Proto-Indo-European *-idyéti Proto-Hellenic *-íďďō Ancient Greek -ῐ́ζω (-ĭ́zō) Proto-Indo-European *-mos Proto-Indo-European *-mós Ancient Greek -μός (-mós) Ancient Greek -ισμός (-ismós)der. English -ism English athleticism From athletic + -ism.

"It catches an American athleticism and energetic team spirit that still seem to smash European notions of ballet classicism, as does its dancers’ selfless manner and their practicelike costumes." — 2008 June 9, Alastair Macaulay, “In Student Steps and Leaps, a Survey of National Styles”, in The New York Times, archived from the original on 28 Jan 2025:
"Both Alcaraz and Sinner pushed themselves - and each other - to the limit in a classic contest that showcased all of their shot-making, athleticism and resilience." — 2025 June 8, Jonathan Jurejko, “Alcaraz stuns Sinner in extraordinary French Open final”, in BBC:

Explore More C2 Vocabulary Words

CEFR Practice Quiz
The coach praised her natural ____ during the intense training session.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The players demonstrated great ____ during the whole football match.

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