athletics

American  

[ath-let-iks] / æθˈlɛt ɪks /

noun

1. (usually used with a plural verb) athletic sports, as running, rowing, or boxing.

2. British. track-and-field events.

3. (usually used with a singular verb) the practice of athletic exercises; the principles of athletic training.

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athletics British  

/ æθˈlɛtɪks /

noun

1. 1. track and field events

   2. ( as modifier )

      an athletics meeting

2. sports or exercises engaged in by athletes

3. the theory or practice of athletic activities and training

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Pronunciation

See athlete.

Etymology

Origin of athletics

First recorded in 1595–1605; see origin at athletic, -ics

Explanation

Use the noun athletics to talk about sports, including team practice, games, and training. A serious baseball player might choose a college based on its athletics program. In Britain, the word athletics specifically refers to track and field competitions, such as long-distance running, high jump, and javelin. In the US, you can use the word to talk about any kind of sporty activity. The noun athletics comes from the adjective athletic, based on the model of gymnastics. The Greek root is athletes, "prizefighter" or "contestant in the games."

Example Sentences

The flood of endorsement money that has upended college athletics is leading to an equally radical transformation of high-school sports, where parents are pouring money into their children’s athletic careers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 28, 2026

However, a third event threatened with cancellation, the Diamond League athletics meeting at Charléty stadium, will go ahead on Sunday after organisers agreed to an "adapted format" involving moving the start later into the afternoon.

From BBC • Jun. 26, 2026

Two U.S. senators are hoping to pass legislation they believe would bring more stability to college athletics and thwart legal challenges.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Gap also said it’s had trouble clearing out merchandise at athletics apparel brand Athleta, where same-store sales tumbled 11%.

From MarketWatch • May 29, 2026

Her only recommendation was to avoid athletics, since my knee is still recovering.

From "The Sea in Winter" by Christine Day