athletics

[ath-let-iks] /æθˈlɛt ɪks/
noun
1.
(usually used with a plural verb) athletic sports, as running, rowing, or boxing.
2.
British. track-and-field events.
3.
(usually used with a singular verb) the practice of athletic exercises; the principles of athletic training.
Origin
1595-1605; see athletic, -ics
Pronunciation note
See athlete.
Examples from the web for athletics
  • Moreover, to mis-estimate athletics is equally bad whether their importance is magnified or minimized.
  • Similar examples of peculiar rituals and regimented routines in athletics abound.
  • Gene therapy, say a host of researchers, three of whom call for more oversight of the technique's use in athletics.
  • It has led press coverage of health concerns in all levels of athletics.
  • Many regard amateur athletics as more pure than professional athletics, though obviously this can be argued both ways.
  • Already we're seeing athletics tainted by medications that can improve performance while imposing nasty side effects.
  • For now, the main risk has to the potential for cheating in athletics tournaments.
  • But according to a common criticism of modern sport, these same developments have destroyed the value of athletics.
  • For intercollegiate athletics, he offers a beguiling defense.
  • The game itself was hardly a display of stellar athletics.
British Dictionary definitions for athletics

athletics

/æθˈlɛtɪks/
noun (functioning as pl or singular)
1.
  1. track and field events
  2. (as modifier): an athletics meeting
2.
sports or exercises engaged in by athletes
3.
the theory or practice of athletic activities and training
Word Origin and History for athletics
n.

c.1730, from athletic; also see -ics. Probably formed on model of gymnastics.