# sportsman

/ˈspɔɹtsmən/ (US) · /spˈɔːtsmən/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sportsman
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a man who plays a lot of sport, especially one who is very good at it. It also describes someone who plays fairly and follows the rules.

For teachers: a male participant in a sport, particularly one who demonstrates high skill or professional status. Often implies an adherence to the principles of fair play and ethical conduct.

## Examples

- He is a talented sportsman who plays both tennis and golf.
- The local newspaper named him the sportsman of the year for his record-breaking season and charitable work.
- While the media focused on his physical prowess, his peers respected him more as a sportsman who never disputed a referee's decision, even when it cost him the match.

## Usage notes

- The feminine equivalent is 'sportswoman'; 'athlete' or 'sports player' are common gender-neutral alternatives.

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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.