boxing

¹ American  

[bok-sing] / ˈbɒk sɪŋ /

noun

1. the material used to make boxes or casings.

2. a boxlike enclosure; casing.

3. an act or instance of putting into or furnishing with a box.

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boxing ² American  

[bok-sing] / ˈbɒk sɪŋ /

noun

1. the act, technique, or profession of fighting with the fists, with or without boxing gloves.

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boxing British  

/ ˈbɒksɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. the act, art, or profession of fighting with the fists, esp the modern sport practised under Queensberry rules

   2. ( as modifier )

      a boxing enthusiast

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Etymology

Origin of boxing¹

First recorded in 1510–20; box ¹ + -ing ¹

Origin of boxing²

First recorded in 1705–15; box ² + -ing ¹

Explanation

Boxing is a sport that involves strategically punching an opponent while defending yourself from their return punches. Some amateurs practice boxing as a way to stay in shape. If you go to a boxing match, you'll see two fighters in a ring surrounded by thick ropes. They wear protective helmets and thick, padded gloves, and their fight is monitored by a referee. Rules of boxing include not hitting below the waist, from behind, or when an opponent is on the ground. The objective, however, is to knock the other person out or hit them so hard that they can't get up within ten seconds.

Example Sentences

Oscar De La Hoya and Muhammad Ali's grandson on Wednesday slammed proposed changes to federal boxing laws, warning a US Senate committee that the reforms would prioritize corporate profits and Saudi investors over fighters.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

Ownership of more TV stations gives Nexstar increased leverage against traditional power brokers like the national broadcasters—and the ability to save money on network fees by boxing out those brands altogether.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

Kinahan also had ties to the world of sport via his now defunct boxing management company MTK Global, which represented more than 100 boxers including Tyson Fury and Carl Frampton.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

CinemaCon also launched the first trailer for a film about the tumultuous making of 1976 boxing classic Rocky.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

He raised his sword, but got smacked in the face with another boxing glove arrow, and sat down hard in a deck chair.

From "The Sea of Monsters" by Rick Riordan