Definition

Proper noun: - Eddy Merckx: A Belgian former professional road racing cyclist, widely considered one of the greatest and most successful cyclists in history. He is renowned for his numerous victories, including winning the Tour de France five times.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Eddy Merckx dominated professional cycling in the late 1960s and 1970s.
  • Many cyclists are compared to Merckx, but few have matched his record.
  • The nickname "The Cannibal" was given to Merckx because of his insatiable appetite for victory.

Advanced Usage

• "a Merckx-like performance": Used to describe an exceptionally dominant and victorious performance in cycling or, by extension, in other competitive fields.
  • The young rider put in a Merckx-like performance to win all three mountain stages.

Variants and Related Words

• Merckxian (adj): Characteristic of or resembling Eddy Merckx, particularly in terms of dominance, aggression, and all-around ability in cycling.
  • His Merckxian style of attacking from long range thrilled the fans.

Synonyms

• The Cannibal (nickname): His famous nickname, directly referencing his competitive nature.
• Champion: A general term for a winner, but often used in the context of Merckx's status.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Pulling a Merckx": Informally used among cycling fans to describe a rider who launches a devastating, long-range solo attack to win a race.
  • No one expected him to attack with 80 kilometers to go; he's really pulling a Merckx today.

Noun

1. Belgian racing cyclist who won the Tour de France five times (born in 1945)