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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2001, Brasher became one of the few coaches to ever be awarded the , presented to players and coaches in the who are voted on by their teammates as role models of inspiration, sportsmanship and courage. Jon Paul Hoornstra, Newsweek, 26 Jan. 2025 The Baltimore Ravens praised the good sportsmanship and charitable efforts. Doha Madani, NBC News, 23 Jan. 2025 Good sportsmanship and class are easier said than done. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 22 Jan. 2025 Myers received Green Bay’s Ed Block Courage Award, which recognizes NFL players who best exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. Rob Reischel, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025 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 30 Jan. 2025.

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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