pugilist

[ pyoo-juh-list ]
See synonyms for pugilist on Thesaurus.com
noun
  1. a person who fights with the fists; a boxer, usually a professional.

Origin of pugilist

1
First recorded in 1780–90; from Latin pugil (see pugilism) + -ist

Other words from pugilist

  • pu·gi·lis·tic [pyoo-juh-lis-tik] /ˌpyu dʒəˈlɪs tɪk/ adjective

Words Nearby pugilist

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use pugilist in a sentence

  • The veins stood out on the doctor's forehead as he worked with her—muscular, like a pugilist.

    Love's Pilgrimage | Upton Sinclair
  • The activity and strength of the Frenchman were so great that a skilful pugilist would have found difficulty in handling him.

    The Life of Kit Carson | Edward S. Ellis
  • As a pugilist might eye a recovering opponent supposed to be stunned, so Mrs. Trapp eyed Mr. Trapp.

    The Adventures of Harry Revel | Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch