English Reference
noun

boxer

n.
US /ˈbɑksɝ/ UK /bˈɒksɐ/ box·er

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Sport

    a person who takes part in the sport of boxing.

    a combatant who participates in the sport of boxing, typically professionally or in amateur competition.

    Simple

    The boxer trained for months before his first professional match.

    In context

    The heavyweight boxer demonstrated remarkable footwork, dodging his opponent's jabs with a grace that belied his massive frame.

    fighterprizefighter
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    a medium-sized dog with short hair and a strong, square face.

    a breed of stocky, short-haired dog of the mastiff type, characterized by a broad, blunt muzzle and a powerful build.

    Simple

    Our neighbor has a friendly boxer that loves to play in the park.

    In context

    Known for their energetic temperament and protective nature, the boxer remains one of the most popular breeds for active families.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    loose underwear for men that looks like short trousers.

    a style of loose-fitting men's underpants, typically with an elastic waistband, modeled after the shorts worn by pugilists.

    Simple

    He prefers wearing boxers because they are more comfortable than tight underwear.

    In context

    The department store offers a wide variety of cotton boxers in various patterns and colors.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural form 'boxers'.

    boxer shorts
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Formal

    a member of a Chinese group that fought against foreign influence around the year 1900.

    a member of the Society of Righteous and Harmonious Fists who participated in the anti-imperialist uprising in China between 1899 and 1901.

    Simple

    The Boxer Rebellion was a significant event in the history of modern China.

    In context

    Historians continue to debate the complex motivations of the Boxers, whose primary goal was the expulsion of foreign powers and Christian missionaries.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Technical Technical

    a type of engine where the parts move toward each other like two people boxing.

    a flat internal combustion engine with horizontally opposed cylinders.

    Simple

    Some famous sports cars use a boxer engine for better balance.

    In context

    The boxer engine configuration allows for a lower center of gravity, significantly improving the vehicle's handling characteristics on tight corners.

    flat engine

Named Boxers by the West, since their official title was "The Fist of Righteous Harmony" (義和拳 /义和拳 (Yìhéquán)) and their symbol was a clenched fist.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated