Contender

Definition

Contender refers to a person or team that competes with others in a competition or contest, typically with a strong chance of winning. It can also refer to someone who strives or competes for a particular goal or position.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtɛndər/
• Respelling: kuhn-TEN-der

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtɛndə/
• Respelling: kuhn-TEN-duh

The pronunciation of "contender" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in the pronunciation of the final "r" sound.

Etymology

The word "contender" comes from the Latin word "contendere," meaning "to stretch out, strive, or compete." The term passed into Middle French as "contendre" and was adopted into English in the late 16th century to refer to someone who competes in a struggle or contest.

Derivatives

• Contend (verb)
• Contention (noun)
• Contending (adjective)
• Contentiously (adverb)
• Contenderism (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Competitor
• Challenger
• Aspirant

Antonyms

• Non-contender
• Supporter
• Ally

Usage

The word "contender" is often used to describe someone or something with a strong chance of winning or achieving a specific goal. For example, "He is a serious contender for the championship," or "The new product launch makes them a contender in the competitive market." It is frequently applied in sports, politics, business, and entertainment.

Related Terms

• Contest: A competition where people strive to win or achieve a specific outcome.
• Opponent: A person who competes against another in a contest or debate.
• Rival: A person or entity who competes with another for the same objective or goal.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Someone who competes in a contest or struggle: Refers to a person or team striving to win a competition or achieve a specific goal.
  • Example: "The boxer is the top contender for the heavyweight title."
• A person striving for a position or goal: Refers to someone competing for a role, award, or title.
  • Example: "She is a strong contender for the CEO position in the company."