athleticism

noun

ath·​let·​i·​cism ath-ˈle-tə-ˌsi-zəm 

: athletic ability : the combination of qualities (such as speed, strength, and agility) that are characteristic of an athlete

These days they do standing backflips and other moves that require a high degree of athleticism—and endless practice.

—Cathy Booth Thomas

Examples of athleticism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Newcastle were short of midfield cover, and Ramsey, with his dynamism, athleticism and positive, attacking mindset, gives them a fresh option. —Tim Spiers, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2025

Stronger knees can help increase your athleticism, improve your ability to perform daily living tasks, and reduce your risk of injury. —Jakob Roze, Health, 2 Sep. 2025

For Denver, one thing Johnson’s lob prowess should create is another way to optimize the superlative athleticism and dunking ability of Aaron Gordon, with Christian Braun, Peyton Watson and DaRon Holmes also being potential targets. —Joel Rush, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025

In addition to the joy and amazing athleticism of the event, Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Surf Dog Surf-a-Thon is the only one of its kind where 100% of the proceeds go directly to supporting orphan pets and programs. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for athleticism

• shamanism