decathlon — An athletic contest consisting of ten different track and field events
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: An athletic contest consisting of ten different track and field events
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈkæθlən/
Example Sentences
- The decathlon is often called the ultimate test of athletic ability.
- After failing at the shot put, he joked that decathlon stands for 'definitely can't handle ten!'
- She's so versatile that she could probably win a decathlon of household chores.
decathlon
NOUN[/dɪˈkæθlən/]
An athletic contest consisting of ten different track and field events
The decathlon champion collapses across the finish line after ten brutal events.
From biathlon to triathlon, the ultimate is decathlon!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Greek, combining 'deca' (ten) and 'athlon' (contest or competition). The term literally refers to an athletic competition comprising ten events, requiring mastery across diverse sporting disciplines as a comprehensive test of athletic prowess.
Breakdown
deca- (Greek: ten) + athlon (Greek: contest, struggle). The compound reflects the ancient Greek athletic tradition of testing competitors across multiple events to determine overall athletic excellence.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The decathlon is often called the ultimate test of athletic ability.”
“After failing at the shot put, he joked that decathlon stands for 'definitely can't handle ten!'”
“She's so versatile that she could probably win a decathlon of household chores.”
“Training for decathlon requires mastering both speed and strength events.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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