athleticism

American  

[ath-let-uh-siz-uhm] / æθˈlɛt əˌsɪz əm /

noun

1. a high degree of natural talent, strength, or enthusiasm in physical sports or exercises.

   Yoga should be accessible to all people regardless of body type, level of athleticism, or age.

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Etymology

Origin of athleticism

athletic ( def. ) + -ism ( def. )

Explanation

Athleticism is the quality of having the kind of strength and energy that makes a great athlete. It takes athleticism to run marathons, play pro football, or sprint down a cobblestone street in high heels without falling. Athleticism might get you a basketball scholarship to college or help you win most of the tennis matches you play. When you're particularly good at a sport, people will praise your athleticism. Although it’s usually used with sports, athleticism can describe any quality of strength and energy. It takes musical athleticism to play Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit on piano. The word is rooted in the Greek athlētēs, "prizefighter or contestant in the games."

Example Sentences

Does increased athleticism and tactical nous risk losing the distinctive character of the women's game?

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

The teams are the best from Performance Cheer divisions ages 15 to 18 and show off their precision, artistry and athleticism.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

But for all the athleticism on display, little emerges that is visually and physically arresting.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

Like Cunningham-South and Chessum, their second-row pairing of Charles Ollivon and Mickael Guillard have the athleticism and explosiveness to play in the back row on occasion.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

Merlyn, sitting with his back to all the athleticism, was practising a spell which he had forgotten.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White