athletics

American  

[ath-let-iks] / æθˈlɛt ɪks /

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.

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athletics British  

/ 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

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Pronunciation

See athlete.

Etymology

Origin of athletics

First recorded in 1595–1605; athletic, -ics

Example Sentences

"I've started my winter preparation like I normally would for an athletics season."

From BBC

Commodus, now a teenager, had shown he had none of his father’s nature; he so preferred athletics to statecraft that some believed he’d been sired by a gladiator.

From The Wall Street Journal

Before that athletics had been largely amateur until the 1980s, when athletes were left to generate their own income if they wanted to turn professional.

From BBC

Several potential candidates with deep experience, as well as close ties to USC athletics officials, are expected to be available.

From Los Angeles Times

Annie had gotten into college athletics to someday be an athletic director.

From Los Angeles Times