Definition

A long-distance race that is usually 26 miles and 385 yards, or an event that requires a lot of effort and endurance.

Example

She trained for months to prepare for the marathon.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about running a marathon?

I have, but it sounds really challenging to me.

It's definitely a test of endurance, but I think it would be fun!

Maybe one day I'll train for a marathon and give it a shot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Marathon → The word originates from the name of the plain of Marathon in Greece, where the Battle of Marathon took place in 490 BC. The term is derived from the legend of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger who ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory over the Persians, thus giving rise to the modern long-distance running event.

Memory Tip

Imagine a messenger running a long distance from Marathon to Athens to deliver important news — that's how the word marathon came to represent a long-distance race.

Visually Confused Words