deportista
“deportista” means “athlete” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
athlete, sportsperson
Also: player
📝 In Action
Rafael Nadal es un deportista increíble.
A1Rafael Nadal is an incredible athlete.
Ella es una deportista profesional de voleibol.
A2She is a professional volleyball player.
Los deportistas olímpicos entrenan varias horas al día.
B1Olympic athletes train several hours a day.
sporty, athletic
📝 In Action
Mi familia no es muy deportista; preferimos leer.
A2My family isn't very sporty; we prefer reading.
Tiene un espíritu muy deportista y siempre acepta la derrota.
B2He has a very sporty spirit and always accepts defeat (good sportsmanship).
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: deportista
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'The female athlete'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Spanish word 'deporte' (sport), which comes from the Old Spanish word 'deportar' meaning 'to amuse oneself' or 'to take a break.' This originally came from Latin 'deportare' which meant 'to carry away.'
First recorded: 19th century (in its modern sports context)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'deportista' only refer to professionals?
No, it can refer to anyone who plays sports regularly, whether they get paid for it or just do it for fun.
Is there a word 'deportisto'?
No, 'deportisto' does not exist in Spanish. The word 'deportista' is used for all genders.
What is the difference between 'deportista' and 'atleta'?
'Deportista' is a broad term for anyone in any sport (soccer, tennis, swimming). 'Atleta' is more specific to track and field events or someone with a very high level of physical conditioning.