pugilist

[pyoo-juh-list]

noun

1. a person who fights with the fists; a boxer, usually a professional.

Other Word Forms

• pugilistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pugilist¹

First recorded in 1780–90; from Latin pugil ( pugilism ) + -ist

Example Sentences

He also bested Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett, 44, who has made a name for herself as a clever pugilist.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, modern-day affirmative stereotypes about the Irish as a drunken and sentimental tribe of poets, dreamers and pugilists closely mirror older, more negative stereotypes, rendered charming instead of threatening.

From Salon

Huston’s heart is certainly in the right place and the narrative corner he’s written for Mike to fight his way out of isn’t an untenable one for a pugilist melodrama.

From Los Angeles Times

The pilgrimages into GOP territory branded the governor as a pugilist capable of landing shots on the Republican Party and former President Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

Deborah, being the flinty pugilist that she is, resents her younger comedy twin for pushing her to be more attuned to progressive, empathetic viewpoints.

From Salon

Related Words

• prizefighter www.thesaurus.com