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noun

discus

DIHS-kuhs

Discus (noun) means a heavy round disc thrown in athletics competitions. Example: “She trains every morning for the discus event.”

noun
1
A heavy round disc thrown in athletics competitions.
"She trains every morning for the discus event."
"The discus sailed just past the sixty-metre mark."
2
The track-and-field event of throwing this disc for distance.
"He won gold in the discus at the regional championships."
3
A brightly coloured freshwater aquarium fish (genus Symphysodon) with a flat, round body.
"Discus fish need warm, soft water to thrive in a tank."

How to use discus

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe flat disc thrown in athletics, or the event itself; also a round tropical aquarium fish.

Common pairings
throw the discus discus thrower discus event

Word forms

discuses plural

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She trains every morning for the _____ event.

Etymology

From Latin discus, itself from Ancient Greek diskos meaning a disk or throwing-plate. The same root gave us "dish," "desk," and "dais."

Origin: Ancient Greek

Related words

Rhymes for discus

See all rhymes for discus →

Frequently asked questions

What does “discus” mean?

The word “discus” means a heavy round disc thrown in athletics competitions. In plain terms, the flat disc thrown in athletics, or the event itself; also a round tropical aquarium fish.

How do you pronounce “discus”?

“Discus” is pronounced DIHS-kuhs (/ˈdɪs.kəs/ in IPA).

How do you use “discus” in a sentence?

Here is “discus” used in a sentence: “She trains every morning for the discus event.”

What part of speech is “discus”?

“Discus” is a noun.

Where does the word “discus” come from?

The word “discus” comes from Ancient Greek. From Latin discus, itself from Ancient Greek diskos meaning a disk or throwing-plate. The same root gave us "dish," "desk," and "dais.".

How many meanings does “discus” have?

“Discus” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a heavy round disc thrown in athletics competitions.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial