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 Big East will announce its defensive player of the year, most improved, sixth man and sportsmanship awards on Monday. —Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 8 Mar. 2026

The inevitable feats of athleticism and sportsmanship are set to unfold against a backdrop of higher-than-usual geopolitical tensions, amidst multiple ongoing wars. —Rachel Treisman, NPR, 6 Mar. 2026

In a survey by the National Association of Sports Officials, it was found that adults, mostly parents, are the primary source of poor sportsmanship, with 64% of referees reported having had to eject parents from games. —Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026

Chloe Kim stood out for her incredible display of sportsmanship during the Games. —Steven P. Dinkin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Mar. 2026

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