Ath"lete (#), n. [L. athleta, Gr. prizefighter, fr. to contend for a prize, , Hom. , contest, prize; fr. the same root as E. wed: cf. F. athlete.]
1. Antiq.
One who contended for a prize in the public games of ancient Greece or Rome.
2.
Any one trained to contend in exercises requiring great physical agility and strength; one who has great activity and strength; a champion.
3.
One fitted for, or skilled in, intellectual contests; as, athletes of debate.
© Webster 1913.