Ath″lete (�), n. [L. athleta, Gr. � prizefighter, fr. � to contend for a prize, �, Hom. �, contest, � prize; fr. the same root as E. wed: cf. F. athlète.] 1. (Antiq.) One who contended for a prize in the public games of ancient Greece or Rome.
2. Any one trained to contend in exercises requiring great physical agility and strength; one who has great activity and strength; a champion.
3. One fitted for, or skilled in, intellectual contests; as, athletes of debate.