pentathlon

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun pentathlon has 1 sense

pentathlon - an athletic contest consisting of five different events
--₁ is a kind of athletic contest, athletic competition, athletics

Definitions from the Web

Pentathlon

Description:

Pentathlon refers to a multi-disciplinary sporting event consisting of five different events. Participants compete in various physical and athletic activities, showcasing their skills and abilities across a range of disciplines.

Senses and Usages:

1. Sports:

In the context of sports, a pentathlon typically includes the following five events: fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, and a combination of running and shooting. Athletes compete in each event, and the overall winner is determined by their combined scores across all disciplines.

Example: The pentathlon event at the Olympics requires participants to excel in multiple sports, challenging their versatility and athleticism.

2. Historical:

In ancient Greece, the pentathlon was a contest consisting of discus throwing, javelin throwing, long jump, running, and wrestling. It was one of the original events in the ancient Olympic Games and held significant cultural and historical importance.

Example: The pentathlon was a revered event during the ancient Greek era, testing the strength and agility of the participants in a diverse range of activities.

3. Figurative:

The term pentathlon can also be used figuratively to describe a situation or challenge that involves five different aspects or components. It represents a diverse and comprehensive set of activities or tasks.

Example: Managing a successful project requires a pentathlon of skills, including planning, organizing, communicating, problem-solving, and leadership.

Sample Sentences:

1. He trained rigorously for months to prepare for the pentathlon, focusing on improving his speed, endurance, and fencing skills.

2. The ancient Olympic pentathlon was a true test of the versatility and strength of the athletes, highlighting their abilities in various disciplines.

3. The conference aimed to address a pentathlon of topics, ranging from technology advancements to environmental sustainability.