footrace

[ foot-reys ]

noun

1. a race run by contestants on foot.

Word History and Origins

Origin of footrace¹

First recorded in 1655–65; foot + race ¹

Example Sentences

The defensive back won a footrace with Moore to the end zone, the 88-yard interception return for a touchdown giving the Cougars a 10-9 advantage with seven seconds left before halftime.

From Los Angeles Times

He kicked into space behind the Georgia defence and effortlessly won the footrace, but his fingertip grounding was contentious with boos ringing as it was awarded on review.

From BBC

They were powerless to stop quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins making football a footrace against a secondary that too often appeared to be standing on flat feet.

From Los Angeles Times

With no cellphone service, they entertained themselves, organizing footraces and dances.

From Los Angeles Times

For example, instead of a coin toss, a sports bet could be used, such as a footrace pitting retired sprinter Usain Bolt against singer Taylor Swift.

From Scientific American