challenger

[chal-in-jer]

noun

1. a person or thing that challenges.

2. Boxing.,  a boxer who fights a champion for his championship title.

3. Radio.,  interrogator.

4. U.S. Aerospace.,  none Challenger the second space shuttle to orbit and return to earth: exploded 1½ min. after launch on Jan. 28, 1986, causing the death of all seven on board.

Other Word Forms

• nonchallenger noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of challenger¹

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; challenge, -er ¹

Example Sentences

An unbeaten Chelsea emerged as the domestic champions for the sixth consecutive time last season and the Gunners - their closest challengers - were 12 points behind.

From BBC

Sonia Bompastor's side finished 12 points clear of Arsenal last season, but with a busy transfer window behind them the Gunners will hope to be closer challengers.

From BBC

They had a bruising year in 2024, and found themselves in an unlikely position: protecting their own incumbents from challengers seeking to oust them.

From Los Angeles Times

Their display has done little damage to their reputation as tournament challengers, with favourites England no doubt watching on before their round-two game against Samoa.

From BBC

I think we'll find out a lot about Manchester City and whether they can be challengers because Brighton away is a difficult fixture.

From BBC

Related Words

• contender