Definition

A person or thing that competes against someone or something, especially in a contest or competition.

Example

The challenger stepped into the ring, ready to fight for the championship title.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new challenger in the boxing match?

Yeah, everyone says he's really strong and could actually win.

It'll be exciting to see if he can take the title from the champion.

Definitely! A good fight always brings in the crowds.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Challenger → It is formed from "challenge" (from Old French *chalenge*, meaning to accuse or call to account) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A challenger is a person who calls someone out or contests something.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'calls out' or 'accuses' another — that's what a challenger does.

Visually Confused Words