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Synonyms for

Athletes

Noun / ˈæˌθli:ts / Another word for athletes — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

People who compete in sports or physical activities.

Synonyms & similar words

jock athlete sportsman competitor player champion contender jock pro professional sportsperson racer runner gymnast swimmer cyclist boxer wrestler footballer skier hurdler

Synonyms by register

Formal

competitors participants sportspeople

Informal

jocks pros gym rats

Literary

champions contenders stalwarts

Antonyms

nonathletes inactives sedentary couch potatoes laypeople

Common collocations

  • professional athletes
  • amateur athletes
  • young athletes
  • elite athletes
  • Olympic athletes
  • student athletes
  • track and field athletes

Word family

noun athlete
adjective athletic

Usage note

While 'athlete' is gender-neutral, some may still use 'male athlete' or 'female athlete' for specificity. It refers to someone who is proficient in sports and other forms of physical exercise.

Compare "athletes" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The athletes ran fast during the race.
  2. The basketball team had many talented athletes.
  3. The gymnasts practiced their routines every day.
  4. The soccer player was named the best athlete of the year.
  5. The Olympic athletes proudly represented their countries.

Quotes

  • I've failed over and over again in my life, and that is why I succeed. - Michael Jordan, retired basketball athlete
  • The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning. - Pele, retired soccer athlete
  • I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was. - Muhammad Ali, retired boxer athlete

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