Definition

Describing someone who does not have physical skills or interest in sports and physical activities, often focusing more on academic or intellectual pursuits.

Example

She preferred reading books to playing sports, as she considered herself nonathletic.

Conversation

I’ve always been so nonathletic compared to everyone else.

Really? I thought you played soccer in high school.

I did, but it was just for fun, not because I was good at it.

That makes sense; not everyone has to be into sports.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonathletic → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "athletic" (from Greek "athletikos", meaning pertaining to athletes or athletic activities). The word "nonathletic" means not pertaining to or characteristic of athletes or athletic activities.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'athletic' relating to athletes — so nonathletic describes someone who is not athletic.

Visually Confused Words