noun
biathlon
by-ATH-lun/baɪˈæθlən/
An athletic contest combining two events, usually cross-country skiing and rifle shooting.
The biathlon competitor aims at the targets while standing on cross-country skis.
Etymology
“Two” and “contest” identify a competition combining two disciplines: skiing and shooting. The contest element was taken from pentathlon, adapting the naming pattern for a five-event competition.
In context
Olympic biathlon scoring rewards both quick cross-country skiing and precise rifle shooting, with penalties applied for missed targets that directly impact an athlete's final time.
More examples
- She practices steady breathing for the shooting stage of the biathlon.
- A missed target costs him time in the biathlon.
- The winter championships include several biathlon races.
Forms
biathlon · biathlons
Similar words
- triathlon
- Usually combines swimming, cycling, and running.
- duathlon
- Usually combines running and cycling.