sportsmanship

noun

sports·​man·​ship ˈspȯrts-mən-ˌship How to pronounce sportsmanship (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The All-England Club Lawn Tennis Club emphasizes good sportsmanship and respect for everyone involved in the Grand Slam. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 Journalists are critical to weaving together a public narrative that conveys the magic of the games, the beauty of teamwork, and the skill of sportsmanship. Gypsy Guillén Kaiser, Fortune, 23 June 2026 The same Draymond Green who has spent much of his career blurring the line between basketball and mixed martial arts is now handing out lessons on sportsmanship. Alejandro Avila Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2026 In the context of football, goodwill manifests in acts of sportsmanship, community-building efforts, and moments where the game transcends the pitch to inspire unity and hope. Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sportsmanship

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sportsmanship was in 1897

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sportsmanship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sportsmanship. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

sportsmanship

noun
sports·​man·​ship ˈspō(ə)rt-smən-ˌship How to pronounce sportsmanship (audio)
ˈspȯ(ə)rt-
: fair play, respect for opponents, and gracious behavior in winning or losing

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