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

From the base of Middlesbrough's midfield, Hayden Hackney demonstrated a range of passing, athleticism, and tendency to make a difference in key moments that stood out in the division.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

But Monfils will be best remembered for his on-court showmanship, athleticism and outrageous shot selection.

From BBC • May 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

He’s become a player who can be counted on, and he’s especially valuable to a team that happens to badly need youth and athleticism, as the Lakers do.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

He made his way up to the promenade deck, where he found a riot of athleticism unfolding.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown