# wrestling

/ˈɹɛsəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈɛslɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wrestling
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the sport

noun · CEFR A2

a sport where two people try to throw each other to the ground using their hands and bodies.

For teachers: a combat sport or contest in which two unarmed individuals struggle hand-to-hand with the goal of pinning or subduing the opponent.

- He joined the wrestling team at school to improve his strength and balance.
- Greco-Roman wrestling remains a staple of the Olympic Games, requiring athletes to use only their upper bodies for throws and takedowns.

### 2. entertainment

noun · CEFR B1

a type of show where performers pretend to fight in a ring.

For teachers: a form of performance art or professional entertainment that emulates the sport of wrestling through choreographed matches.

- The kids love watching professional wrestling on TV because of the colorful costumes.
- While professional wrestling involves high-level athleticism, the outcomes of the matches are predetermined for dramatic effect.

### 3. a struggle

noun · CEFR B2

the act of trying very hard to deal with a difficult problem or feeling.

For teachers: a difficult struggle or effort to overcome a problem, doubt, or internal conflict.

- Her wrestling with the difficult decision lasted for several weeks.
- The philosopher spent years wrestling with the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in modern warfare.

## Examples

- He joined the school wrestling team to get stronger.
- Professional wrestling combines athletic skill with theatrical performances to entertain large crowds in arenas.
- While modern Olympic wrestling emphasizes technical precision and speed, traditional folk styles often focus on endurance and raw physical power within specific cultural contexts.

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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.