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. athlète.] 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.

• a person who actively participates in sports, and one who is highly skilled in sports.