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Definition of athletic
athletic
/æθˈlɛtɪk/
ath · let · ic
Adverb:athletically
athletic Lexical Profile
CEFR
B1
Grade
4
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
3
athletic Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Physically strong, fit, and active; having a muscular, well-proportioned build suited for sports.
Example
"Years of competitive swimming had given her a tall, athletic build."
2
Relating to athletes or to organized physical sports, games, and exercises.
Example
"The university is building a new athletic facility for its track and field teams."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for athletic Antonyms
View all antonyms for athletic• Rhymes for athletic
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin 'athleticus', from Ancient Greek 'athletikos' ('relating to an athlete'), derived from 'athlos' meaning 'a contest' or 'feat' and 'athlon' meaning 'a prize'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Athletic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/athletic