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

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

There has never been a mainstay, major female promoter in MMA or boxing.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Barry is the founder and president of Matchroom Sport, one of the leading promoters in boxing, darts and snooker, while his son Eddie is chairman of the organisation.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

The energy could not be more different from a boxing weigh-in.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

And whenever I'm not laughing at those fools, I'm boxing.

From "When I Was the Greatest" by Jason Reynolds