athletics

[ath-let-iks]

noun

1. (usually used with a plural verb),  athletic sports, as running, rowing, or boxing.

2. British.,  track-and-field events.

3. (usually used with a singular verb),  the practice of athletic exercises; the principles of athletic training.

athletics

/ æθˈlɛtɪks /

noun

1. 1. track and field events

   2. ( as modifier )

      an athletics meeting

2. sports or exercises engaged in by athletes

3. the theory or practice of athletic activities and training

Pronunciation Note

See athlete.

Word History and Origins

Origin of athletics¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; athletic, -ics

Example Sentences

Critics argued the golf series was a deliberate attempt at “sportswashing” by “banking on the glamour of athletics to outshine concerns about a history of human rights abuses,” The Times reported at the time.

From Los Angeles Times

The prospect of having his child trackside at the LA Paralympics in three years' time is providing added motivation for Pembroke to continue his work both in and out of athletics.

From BBC

“How can austerity of this magnitude be imposed on the core academic mission while athletics spending goes unchecked?”

From Los Angeles Times

Despite relay medals supplying five of GB's 10 athletics medals at last summer's Games, there was no success here - with the men's 4x100m quartet failing to get the baton round in their heat.

From BBC

It wasn’t cold enough to discourage Sanchez from continuing his quest to balance athletics and academics.

From Los Angeles Times