Olympian

[ uh-lim-pee-uhn, oh-lim- ]

adjective

1. pertaining to Mount Olympus or dwelling thereon, as the gods of classical Greece.
2. pertaining to Olympia in Elis.
3. of, resembling, characteristic of, or suitable to the gods of Olympus; majestic or aloof:

   an Olympian landscape; an Olympian disdain.

noun

1. an Olympian deity.
2. a contender in the Olympic Games.
3. a native or inhabitant of Olympia.

Olympian

/ əˈlɪmpɪən /

adjective

1. of or relating to Mount Olympus or to the classical Greek gods
2. majestic or godlike in manner or bearing
3. superior to mundane considerations, esp when impractical
4. of or relating to ancient Olympia or its inhabitants

noun

1. a god of Olympus
2. an inhabitant or native of ancient Olympia
3. a competitor in the Olympic Games

Other Words From

• O·lympi·an·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of Olympian¹

1585–95; < Late Latin Olympiānus, equivalent to Latin Olympi ( us ) (< Greek Olýmpios, derivative of Ólympos Olympus ) + -ānus -an

Example Sentences

Paralympians have criticised the decision by Fortnum & Mason to hold an event for Olympians but neglect to invite any Paralympic athletes.

From BBC

One of the country's most decorated Olympians, he won six gold medals across four Games.

From BBC

There have been very few black British Winter Olympians, but there has been representation in Olympic bobsleigh squads since the 1980s.

From BBC

The Edinburgh-born Olympian's cancer was discovered last year after a routine scan for shoulder pain - he thought he had injured himself while lifting weights at the gym - revealed a tumour.

From BBC

Despite his menacing power, two-time Olympian Beterbiev's boxing skills often go under the radar.

From BBC

Related Words

• angelic
• divine
• ethereal
• immortal
• otherworldly
• spiritual
• sublime
• supernatural