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

The heightened athleticism of the NBA often is highlighted through physicality or finishing at the rim. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026

Nick Richards showed me a great deal of hustle and toughness and athleticism in the preseason. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026

San Clemente often ran two-way star Jaxson Rex out of the Wildcat formation, letting the Brigham Young commit’s athleticism take center stage. — Caleb Otte, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026

Farce is 40 percent athleticism and 60 percent math, and the company is still in the early days of attempting to nail all those demanding little jabs and turns. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for athleticism

• shamanism