athlete

word

/ˈæθˌɫit/
ATH-leet
/ˈæθliːt/
ATH-leet

Definition

A person who trains for and competes in sports or other physical activities, often professionally.

Usage & Nuances

Used for both men and women. Common collocations: 'professional athlete', 'Olympic athlete', 'student athlete'. Always refers to someone skilled and competitive in sports, not just anyone who is active.

Example Sentences

He is an athlete at the local track club.

basic

The athlete won a gold medal.

basic

My sister wants to be an athlete when she grows up.

basic

Being an athlete takes a lot of discipline and hard work.

natural

Many college students are also athletes on school teams.

natural

You don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to enjoy sports.

natural