gladiator

[ glad-ee-ey-ter ]

noun

1. (in ancient Rome) a person, often a slave or captive, who was armed with a sword or other weapon and compelled to fight to the death in a public arena against another person or a wild animal, for the entertainment of the spectators.
2. a person who engages in a fight or controversy.
3. a prizefighter.

gladiator

/ ˈɡlædɪˌeɪtə /

noun

1. (in ancient Rome and Etruria) a man trained to fight in arenas to provide entertainment
2. a person who supports and fights publicly for a cause

Word History and Origins

Origin of gladiator¹

1535–45; < Latin gladiātor, equivalent to gladi ( us ) sword + -ātor -ator

Word History and Origins

Origin of gladiator¹

C16: from Latin: swordsman, from gladius sword

Example Sentences

Normal People actor Mescal is currently starring in blockbuster Gladiator II. Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel following the 2000 epic has been met with a mixed response from film critics.

From BBC

Scott’s “Gladiator II” from Paramount Pictures is the latest sequel to return after a decades-long hiatus.

From Los Angeles Times

If its lega-sequel predecessors are any indication, “Gladiator II” could be bound for box-office success.

From Los Angeles Times

Queen Camilla missed the Gladiator II screening, as she recovers from a chest infection.

From BBC

There was some glamour for the King ahead of his birthday, as he attended the premiere of Gladiator II, on Wednesday.

From BBC