pugilism

American  

[pyoo-juh-liz-uhm] / ˈpyu dʒəˌlɪz əm /

noun

1. the art or practice of fighting with the fists; boxing.

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pugilism British  

/ ˈpjuːdʒɪˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the art, practice, or profession of fighting with the fists; boxing

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Other Word Forms

• pugilist noun
• pugilistic adjective
• pugilistically adverb

Etymology

Origin of pugilism

1785–95; < Latin pugil boxer (akin to pugnus fist, pugnāre to fight; compare Greek pýx with the fist, pygmḗ boxing) + -ism

Example Sentences

The iconic Royal Albert Hall has hosted pugilism for over a century, welcomed key political figures and showcased musical superstars.

From BBC

Edwards started boxing aged nine, following his older brother Charlie into the gym, and pugilism quickly consumed his life.

From BBC

His father Stan instructed him to do hours of press-ups from the age of five, introduced him to pugilism aged eight and encouraged him to turn professional after a few senior bouts..

From BBC

But he soon experienced the fickleness of pro pugilism in a significant step-up.

From BBC

The Boxing Pride gym taught Lozano the basics of pugilism and when she began defeating 16- and 17-year-olds when she was just 11, her trainer realized that “La Traviesa” could do great things.

From Los Angeles Times