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

An old-school look with no gloves or accessories, Bailey turns his unassuming aura to chaos and athleticism around the edge as the class’ top producer in sacks and tackles for loss from 2025. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Jan. 2026

These are the words of someone determined not to repeat their father’s sins, someone who wants to be a little different than what a lot of the world might expect of a player with his unique brand of raw power and athleticism. —Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2026

Hurts has the athleticism and mobility and all the essential tangibles needed to be a great quarterback. —CBS News, 9 Jan. 2026

His combination of size (6-7, 320), length and athleticism is usually catnip for defensive coordinators. —Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1835, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for athleticism

• shamanism