sportsmanship

noun

sports·​man·​ship ˈspȯrts-mən-ˌship How to pronounce sportsmanship (audio)
: conduct (such as fairness, respect for one's opponent, and graciousness in winning or losing) becoming to one participating in a sport

Examples of sportsmanship in a Sentence

He's a great player who's also admired for his sportsmanship.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The medal is named for the 19th century Royal Yacht Squadron sailor and is awarded to those that have exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Named after a 19th-century English yachtsman from the famed Royal Yacht Squadron, the award recognizes the spirit of sportsmanship in the America’s Cup. Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2024 More than sportsmanship, the medal is recognition of the fashion house’s long history with the America’s Cup, which began in 1983, when the brand began to sponsor the Challenger series or what would become the Louis Vuitton Cup. Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2024 The Padres fans were, instead, the portrait of strength and sportsmanship, roaring and waving yellow towels until finally howling themselves hoarse when Tanner Scott struck out Shohei Ohtani looking in the eighth inning to end the Dodgers’ best last chance. Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sportsmanship 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sportsmanship was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near sportsmanship

Cite this Entry

“Sportsmanship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sportsmanship. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sportsmanship

noun
sports·​man·​ship ˈspō(ə)rt-smən-ˌship How to pronounce sportsmanship (audio)
ˈspȯ(ə)rt-
: fair play, respect for opponents, and gracious behavior in winning or losing

More from Merriam-Webster on sportsmanship

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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