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

Thiero, a 22-year-old who tries to make up for his lack of experience with pure motor and athleticism, had a team-high eight rebounds with four points in 13 minutes and 12 seconds.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

He earned a spot on the IPP programme, where his athleticism astounded NFL scouts and thrust him into contention for a late-round pick.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 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

Doubles and triples are some of baseball’s most thrilling occurrences, putting the players’ speed, power and athleticism on full display.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The white boys admired him for his athleticism, how far past the fence he could send a kickball.

From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee