English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

sporting

adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈspɔɹtɪŋ/ UK /spˈɔːtɪŋ/ sport·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Sport

    adj.relating to sports or used for sports.

    adj.pertaining to or used in sports and athletic activities.

    Simple

    The city is hosting several major sporting events this summer.

    In context

    The local council invested heavily in sporting facilities, hoping to encourage more teenagers to participate in organised athletics.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.being fair, generous, and honest when playing a game or taking a risk.

    adj.exhibiting sportsmanship; fair, generous, and willing to take a risk in a competitive context.

    Simple

    It was a sporting gesture to let the other team practice on our field.

    In context

    The captain's decision to admit the ball had touched his hand was a sporting act that earned him respect from both sets of fans.

    fairgentlemanlydecent
    unsportingunfair
  3. 03 C1 Advanced LiteraryHumorous

    v.wearing something or showing a feature in a proud or noticeable way.

    v.the present participle of 'sport', meaning to wear or display something prominently.

    Simple

    He arrived at the party sporting a bright red bowtie.

    In context

    By the second week of the expedition, most of the men were sporting thick beards and weathered complexions.

    Usage

    This sense is the present participle of the verb 'sport'.

    wearingshowing offdisplaying
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    n.the activity of playing sports.

    n.the act of engaging in or practicing sports.

    Simple

    The school encourages sporting as a way to stay healthy.

    In context

    The club provides ample opportunities for sporting, ranging from casual weekend matches to professional league training.

Usage sporting director · sporting events

Businesses that rely on foot traffic receive fewer customers, and outdoor events like festivals, races or sporting events might be canceled due to air quality concerns.

Phys.org· 19 Aug 2026

He appeared dazed as he received medical treatment and was helped off the pitch, with Bayern’s sporting director, Max Eberl, moving to play down concerns soon after the game.

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

By surface analysis, sport + -ing.

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

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated