gladiator

American  

[glad-ee-ey-ter] / ˈglæd iˌeɪ tər /

noun

1. (in ancient Rome) a person, often a slave or captive, who was armed with a sword or other weapon and compelled to fight to the death in a public arena against another person or a wild animal, for the entertainment of the spectators.

2. a person who engages in a fight or controversy.

3. a prizefighter.

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gladiator British  

/ ˈɡlædɪˌeɪtə /

noun

1. (in ancient Rome and Etruria) a man trained to fight in arenas to provide entertainment

2. a person who supports and fights publicly for a cause

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Etymology

Origin of gladiator

1535–45; < Latin gladiātor, equivalent to gladi ( us ) sword + -ātor -ator

Example Sentences

"This is a modern day gladiator sport," Paul said.

From BBC

But Ashur sees her and the rest of his gladiators as property, believing his wealth and diplomatic acumen can one day buy him a seat at the table of Rome’s most powerful.

From Salon

"If Santa Claus is watching, the gladiator would like a nice new pair of blue underpants for Christmas please," he joked.

From BBC

Gladiators also gets the Children in Need treatment, as some mini gladiators enter the arena and The One Show's The Challenge Squad are also set to feature.

From BBC

Some even captured prey nearly their own size, including the sizable Rosenberg's gladiator tree frog, which can weigh up to 20 grams.

From Science Daily