# biathlon

/baɪˈæθlɑn/ (US) · /bˈaɪəθlɒn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/biathlon
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a winter sport that combines two different activities: cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Athletes must ski a long distance and stop at certain points to shoot at targets.

For teachers: a winter sporting event consisting of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Competitors alternate between periods of high-intensity skiing and precision marksmanship, with missed shots resulting in time penalties or extra distance.

## Examples

- She practiced her shooting every day to prepare for the biathlon.
- The athlete's heart rate was so high after the uphill climb that it was difficult to stay steady during the biathlon shooting round.
- Success in the biathlon requires a rare physiological balance between cardiovascular endurance for the skiing portions and the extreme calm necessary for accurate target engagement.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verb 'compete in' or 'enter'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.