pugilism

[ pyoo-juh-liz-uhm ]

noun

1. the art or practice of fighting with the fists; boxing.

pugilism

/ ˈpjuːdʒɪˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the art, practice, or profession of fighting with the fists; boxing

Derived Forms

• ˌpugiˈlistically, adverb
• ˈpugilist, noun
• ˌpugiˈlistic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pugilism¹

1785–95; < Latin pugil boxer (akin to pugnus fist, pugnāre to fight; compare Greek pýx with the fist, pygmḗ boxing) + -ism

Word History and Origins

Origin of pugilism¹

C18: from Latin pugil a boxer; related to pugnus fist, pugna a fight

Example Sentences

He challenges his audience by refusing to capitulate to them, and they love it—his self-loathing pugilism is a turn-on.

From Time

GOProud had been a group known for its pugilism, not its donor development.

From The Daily Beast

This pugilism is never more apparent than when the family is defending its own.

From The Daily Beast

A baronet scientifically skilled in pugilism, enjoyed no pleasure so much as giving gratuitous instructions in his favorite art.

From Project Gutenberg

But what a bold and vigorous aspect pugilism wore at that time!

From Project Gutenberg

Prolonged warfare had developed in his nature a trace of pugilism hitherto unsuspected by his nearest friend.

From Project Gutenberg

This is a story of amateur pugilism and chivalrous adventure, written by an author whose books on sport are well known.

From Project Gutenberg

There his pugilism ended; they afterwards shook hands, and continued good friends.

From Project Gutenberg