sportswoman
UK: /ˈspɔːtsˌwʊmən/ | US: /ˈspɔːrtsˌwʊmən/
n. a woman who participates in sports, especially professionally or competitively
The word "sportswoman" combines "sports," derived from the Old French "desport" (meaning "leisure" or "pastime"), which evolved into the modern sense of competitive physical activities, and "woman," from Old English "wīfmann" (literally "wife-person"). The compound reflects the gendered distinction in athletic participation, emerging in the 19th century as women's involvement in sports became more formalized. The term highlights both athleticism and femininity, mirroring societal shifts toward gender inclusivity in sports.
She is a celebrated sportswoman who has won multiple Olympic medals.
The sportswoman trained rigorously for the upcoming marathon.
Young girls often look up to her as a role model sportswoman.
The magazine featured an interview with a pioneering sportswoman from the 1920s.
As a professional sportswoman, she advocates for equal pay in athletics.