pugilists

noun

plural of pugilist
as in boxers
one that engages in the sport of fighting with the fists a pugilist with the trademark of the boxing ring: a nose that showed signs of having been broken on more than one occasion

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of pugilists To his credit, the bloodied Yankees fan fought back much better than most pugilists who give up the high ground. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pugilists
  1. boxers
  2. fighters
  3. gladiators
Noun
  • As a teenager and young adult, Tae-ha had a bright future as one of South Korea’s best young boxers.
    — Kayti Burt, Time, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Next up, Average Joes versus NFL players, NHL players and pro boxers!
    — Amber Harding OutKick, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2026
Definition of boxers
Noun
  • De la Espriella’s first airstrike in office killed two ELN fighters on the Colombian side of the border.
    — Adam Shanks, Miami Herald, 20 Aug. 2026
  • The Quds Force is an expeditionary unit made up of the IRGC’s most elite fighters.
    — Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of fighters
Noun
  • This pair has a subtle gladiator-like design (ICYMI, gladiators are back), with straps wrapping slightly up the ankle.
    — Anna Traver, InStyle, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The Greeks branded their slaves; the Romans tattooed their gladiators.
    — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of gladiators

Browse Nearby Words

pugilist
pugilists
pugnacious
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Cite this Entry

“Pugilists.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pugilists. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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