pugilist

[ pyoo-juh-list ]

noun

1. a person who fights with the fists; a boxer, usually a professional.

Other Words From

• pu·gi·lis·tic [pyoo-j, uh, -, lis, -tik] adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pugilist¹

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

Example Sentences

The pilgrimages into GOP territory branded the governor as a pugilist capable of landing shots on the Republican Party and former President Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

Deborah, being the flinty pugilist that she is, resents her younger comedy twin for pushing her to be more attuned to progressive, empathetic viewpoints.

From Salon

He was the ultimate pugilist, a proper athlete in the heavyweight division.

From BBC

Donald Trump is a political pugilist, a very dirty fighter who will do anything to win.

From Salon

Now Kali Reis’s Navarro, with her pugilist scowl, is pleading with her to rediscover her sense of justice and do right by Annie.

From New York Times

Related Words

• prizefighter