triathlon
UK: traɪˈæθlən | US: traɪˈæθlɑːn
n. an athletic contest consisting of three different events, typically swimming, cycling, and long-distance running.
triathlon = tri<three> + athlon<contest>
- tri (from Greek treis, meaning "three")
- athlon (from Greek athlon, meaning "contest" or "prize")
Etymology Origin:
The word triathlon combines Greek roots to describe a multi-stage competition. Tri- (three) reflects the number of events, while -athlon (contest) links it to other endurance sports like decathlon (ten events). The term emerged in the 1970s as the modern triathlon gained popularity, blending ancient linguistic roots with contemporary athletic culture.
She trained for months to compete in her first triathlon.
The Ironman triathlon is one of the most challenging endurance events.
He won a gold medal in the national triathlon championship.
The triathlon includes swimming, cycling, and running in sequence.
Participants must transition quickly between disciplines in a triathlon.