athletics
UK: æθˈlɛtɪks | US: æθˈlɛtɪks
n. Physical sports or games, especially those involving competitive running, jumping, or throwing.
n. (as singular "athletic") The practice or principles of physical training and fitness.
The word "athletics" traces back to the Greek athlētēs (ἀθλητής), meaning "contestant in the games," derived from athlon (ἆθλον, "prize" or "contest"). The suffix -ics (from Greek -ika) denotes a field of activity, similar to "mathematics" or "physics." Originally tied to ancient Greek athletic competitions, the term evolved to encompass organized physical sports and training systems in modern English.
She excelled in athletics, winning medals in both sprinting and long jump.
The school promotes athletics as a way to build teamwork and discipline.
Professional athletics requires rigorous training and dedication.
He studied the history of ancient Greek athletics for his thesis.
The athletics department announced new scholarships for talented runners.