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

Most of that effort so far has been concentrated in sports, including National Football League games on Christmas, boxing and mixed martial arts, and World Wrestling Entertainment’s “Raw.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

The Beverly Hills mansion features a wide range of custom amenities, including an indoor sports complex, complete with basketball and pickleball courts, a fully equipped gym, a boxing ring, a sports lounge, and a bar.

From MarketWatch • May 20, 2026

While his professional career was boxing, Frampton said he enjoys presenting.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

Díaz hadn’t fought in MMA since 2022, when he defeated Tony Ferguson, though he had dabbled in boxing.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2026

Then my mother’s Firenza turned down the street and pulled into the driveway, boxing in Miles’s truck.

From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia