decathlon
UK[dɪˈkæθlən]US[dɪˈkæθlən]
n
an athletic event in which each competitor takes part in ten different track and field events.
Morpheme Breakdown
deca
thlon
deca
ten
thlon
contest
Etymology
the word decathlon is a modern creation, coined in english from two ancient greek elements. the first part, 'deca-', derives from the greek word 'deka', meaning 'ten'. the second part, '-athlon', comes from the greek 'athlon', signifying a contest or feat of strength, related to the verb 'athlein' (to contend for a prize). literally meaning 'ten contests', the term was formed to specifically describe the combined event in modern athletics. its structure follows a classical compounding pattern, directly transplanting the greek numerical and competitive concepts into a precise, technical term for the sport.
Analysis
Structure: deca (ten) + thlon (contest)
- deca: from greek 'deka', meaning 'ten'. a numerical prefix.
- thlon: from greek 'athlon', meaning 'contest' or 'prize'. a combining form denoting a competition.
Examples
he trained for years to compete in the olympic decathlon.
winning the decathlon requires exceptional skill in both running and field events.
her favorite event to watch during the games was the decathlon.