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.
Many Formula 1 fans and pundits criticized Verstappen's sportsmanship and race etiquette for lashing out at Russell. Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025 The event celebrates camaraderie, sportsmanship, and community pride through spirited competition, bringing together first responders from across the nation. Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2025 This is another great example of showing good sportsmanship! Alex Vance, Parents, 28 Apr. 2025 The Tortoise and the Hare The race between a very fast hare and a very slow tortoise teaches kids the importance of sportsmanship and determination. Alex Vance, Parents, 28 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sportsmanship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sportsmanship. Accessed 11 Jun. 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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