German word

Leichtathlet

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈlaɪ̯çtatˌleːt/

Meaning

  • masculine nountrack-and-field athlete

Example

Ich kenne den Leichtathleten gut.

I know the track-and-field athlete well.

Illustration for Leichtathlet (track-and-field athlete)

More examples

Bei den Trials wird er als Leichtathlet antreten.

At the trials, he will compete as a track-and-field athlete.

Core concept

An athlete whose event is a race, jump, or throw in the track-and-field program.

Common phrases

  • als Leichtathlet antreten

    compete as a track-and-field athlete

  • Top-Leichtathlet

    top track-and-field athlete

Similar words

Athlet: A competitive athlete known for outstanding physical ability.
Sportler: A person who plays sports or takes part in athletic competitions.
Läufer: An athlete who mainly competes in running events.
Sprinter: An athlete who specializes in short-distance races.

Definition in German

Ein Wettkämpfer oder eine Wettkämpferin in der Sportart Leichtathletik.

Word origin

Leichtathlet is a compound of leicht and Athlet, with Athlet ultimately tracing back to Greek athlētēs, meaning contestant.

Usage tips

  • Leichtathlet names a person, whereas Leichtathletik names the sport: Ich bin Leichtathlet but Ich mache Leichtathletik.

Related words

  • leichtathletischtrack-and-fieldadjective
  • Leichtathletikvereintrack-and-field clubnoun

Word lists with this word