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Definition of marathon

marathon

/ˈmær.ə.θɑːn/
mar · a · thon
Plural:marathons
•
Adjective:marathon
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marathon Lexical Profile

marathon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A long-distance running race, strictly measuring 26 miles 385 yards (42.195 kilometers).

Example

"She trained for six months to run her first marathon in Boston."

2

A long-lasting, difficult, or exhausting task or activity requiring great endurance.

Example

"The treaty negotiations turned into a marathon, lasting well past midnight."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

marang
maranon
maranta
marathon
marble
marbled hatchetfish
marcy

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the legend of the Greek messenger Pheidippides, who is said to have run from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens in 490 BC to announce the Greek victory over Persia before collapsing and dying. The place name 'Marathon' comes from Ancient Greek 'marathon', meaning 'a field of fennel'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Marathon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/marathon
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