challenger

[ chal-in-jer ]

noun

1. a person or thing that challenges.
2. Boxing. a boxer who fights a champion for his championship title.
3. Radio. interrogator ( def 2 ).
4. none Challenger. U.S. Aerospace. the second space shuttle to orbit and return to earth: exploded 1½ min. after launch on Jan. 28, 1986, causing the death of all seven on board.

Other Words From

• non·chal·leng·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of challenger¹

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; challenge, -er ¹

Example Sentences

Mr Warby, a current world water speed record challenger, described it as a "tremendous honour".

From BBC

That same year, the Justice Democrats backed a slate of seven primary challengers who went on to become winning congressional candidates, all of whom remain in Congress, including Reps.

From Salon

With Miocic backed up against the cage, Jones unleashed a crushing spinning back kick to the body which dropped the challenger, before the referee stepped in to end the contest.

From BBC

The challenger complained to the referee about Taylor's excessive holding as both women trading punches in a terrific fifth, Serrano with the accurate blows.

From BBC

What this tells us: Like Trump, Gaetz, Gabbard and Kennedy are aggressive challengers of the status quo, who frequently tip over into conspiracy.

From BBC

Related Words

• contender