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

Long a major supporter of Texas Tech athletics—and a former offensive lineman for the Red Raiders—Campbell says that he began quietly studying the inner workings of college sports in 2021.

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The athletics will be at the LA Memorial Coliseum, while the first medal event will be the women's triathlon and the last will be in swimming.

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Organizers flipped swimming and athletics from the traditional schedule so the opening ceremony venue, SoFi Stadium, could also host swimming in the second week.

Read more on Barron's

In every field, from athletics to artificial intelligence, credibility depends on transparency and verification.

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As the public shakes its head, and straining parents write the checks, more schools are choosing to raise student fees for athletics.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal