athletics

noun

ath·​let·​ics ath-ˈle-tiks 

nonstandard

ˌa-thə-ˈle- 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: exercises, sports, or games engaged in by athletes

2

: the practice or principles of athletic activities

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for athletics

• aesthetics
• ascetics
• asthmatics
• cosmetics
• emetics
• esthetics
• genetics
• kinetics
• magnetics
• phonetics
• poetics
• prosthetics

Kids Definition

athletics

singular or plural noun

ath·​let·​ics ath-ˈlet-iks 

: games, sports, and exercises requiring strength and skill