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

The public address announcer shortly after Self’s request reminded fans to follow the Big 12 policy on sportsmanship and cease and desist the chant. —Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 3 Dec. 2025

As the broadcast tuned into the players and coaches giving each other handshakes for a moment of good sportsmanship, Barker pulled her hand away from Close and continued to walk down the line. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 1 Dec. 2025

Zoeller was awarded the Bob Jones Award by the USGA in 1985, the organization's highest honor given for distinguished sportsmanship. —CBS News, 28 Nov. 2025

Beyond his major championships, Zoeller was recognized with the Bob Jones Award in 1985, the USGA’s highest honor, for distinguished sportsmanship. —MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sportsmanship

• authorship
• battleship
• censorship
• chairmanship
• chieftainship
• comradeship
• consulship
• craftsmanship
• dealership
• draftsmanship
• fellowship
• fingertip

Kids 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