sportsmanship
noun
sports·man·ship
ˈspȯrts-mən-ˌship 
: conduct (such as fairness, respect for one's opponent, and graciousness in winning or losing) becoming to one participating in a sport
Examples of sportsmanship in a Sentence
He's a great player who's also admired for his sportsmanship.
Recent Examples on the Web
Over the board, players make friends, develop long-term rivalries, and learn the invaluable skill of sportsmanship.
—
Sara Hansen, Denver Post, 17 Apr. 2026
Pride, culture, sportsmanship and integrity are at play.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026
One obvious place would be revitalizing local rec teams — the low-cost, low-competition community leagues that emphasize skill development and sportsmanship.
—Editorial, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026
Only one player has won the NHL’s top sportsmanship award more often this century.
—Los Angeles Times, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sportsmanship
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Sara Hansen, Denver Post, 17 Apr. 2026
Pride, culture, sportsmanship and integrity are at play.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026
One obvious place would be revitalizing local rec teams — the low-cost, low-competition community leagues that emphasize skill development and sportsmanship.
—Editorial, Boston Herald, 13 Apr. 2026
Only one player has won the NHL’s top sportsmanship award more often this century.
—Los Angeles Times, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sportsmanship
Cite this Entry
“Sportsmanship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sportsmanship. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
sportsmanship
noun
sports·man·ship
ˈspō(ə)rt-smən-ˌship
ˈspȯ(ə)rt-
: fair play, respect for opponents, and gracious behavior in winning or losing
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