Dictionary.com

athletics

[ ath-let-iks ]
/ æθˈlɛt ɪks /
Save This Word!

noun
(usually used with a plural verb) athletic sports, as running, rowing, or boxing.
British. track-and-field events.
(usually used with a singular verb) the practice of athletic exercises; the principles of athletic training.
QUIZ
CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?
There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?
Question 1 of 7
Which sentence is correct?

Origin of athletics

First recorded in 1595–1605; see origin at athletic, -ics

how to pronounce athletics

See athlete.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use athletics in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for athletics

athletics
/ (æθˈlɛtɪks) /

noun (functioning as plural or singular)
  1. track and field events
  2. (as modifier)an athletics meeting
sports or exercises engaged in by athletes
the theory or practice of athletic activities and training
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
FEEDBACK