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Definition of gladiator

gladiator

/ˈɡlæd.i.eɪ.tɚ/
glad · i · a · tor
Plural:gladiators
•
Adjective:gladiatorial
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gladiator Lexical Profile

gladiator Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

In ancient Rome, an armed combatant who fought against other people or wild animals in a public arena for the entertainment of spectators.

Example

"Archaeologists uncovered a mosaic depicting a famous gladiator in the ruins of the ancient amphitheater."

2

A person who engages in a fierce controversy, public debate, or high-stakes sporting contest.

Example

"The two veteran attorneys stepped into the courtroom like modern-day gladiators ready to argue the landmark case."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for gladiator

• Nearby Words

glad
gladden
glade
gladiator
gladiatorial
gladiola
gladiolus

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Latin 'gladiator' (swordsman), derived from 'gladius' (meaning a short Roman sword).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gladiator. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gladiator
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