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

But the manager noted how Newcastle's athleticism - a hallmark of this side at their best - has returned of late, and Gordon's goal against Chelsea was a case in point.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

But his supreme fitness, work ethic, athleticism and boxing brain earnt him the respect of his peers in the ring.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

“They’ve got just an athleticism that is very applicable to pushing sleds.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 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