performance-enhancing

American  

[per-fawr-muhns en-han-sing, ‐en-hahn-sing] / pərˈfɔr məns ɛnˌhæn sɪŋ, ‐ɛnˌhɑn sɪŋ /

adjective

1. noting or relating to a drug or other substance used to improve one's performance in a sport or other activity requiring strength, stamina, etc..

   The use of performance-enhancing steroids by athletes is banned.

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Etymology

Origin of performance-enhancing

First recorded in 1975–1980

Example Sentences

Former Great Britain sprinter Reece Prescod says he will not take performance-enhancing drugs despite signing up for the controversial Enhanced Games.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2026

Great Elm Capital, a small BDC affiliated with the boutique investment bank Imperial Capital, used all of the performance-enhancing tactics in its $420 million portfolio, and found itself with hefty exposure to First Brands.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

Even so, MYC is not likely to be the basis of a new therapy for sarcopenia or a performance-enhancing drug.

From Science Daily • Dec. 3, 2024

Bonds, the only seven-time most valuable player in major league history, and Clemens, the only seven-time Cy Young winner, were both linked to the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2024

And when he contemplates this year's Olympics, Louganis offers a unique viewpoint, including his opinions on the current controversies over the use of performance-enhancing resources.

From Salon • Aug. 10, 2024