Definition

1. Noun:
   • A heavy disk used in athletic throwing events: A discus is a circular object, typically made of wood with a metal rim, that athletes throw as far as possible in a track and field competition.
   • The athletic event involving throwing this disk: "Discus" can also refer to the track and field event itself, in which competitors throw the discus.

Usage Examples

• Noun (The Object):
  • The athlete gripped the discus firmly before his throw.
  • Ancient Greek statues often depict figures holding a discus.
• Noun (The Event):
  • She won a gold medal in the discus at the national championships.
  • His favorite events are shot put and discus.

Advanced Usage

• "to throw the discus": This is the standard phrase for the action in the event.
  • He has been training for years to throw the discus farther.

Variants and Related Words

• Discus throw (n): The full name for the athletic event.
  • The discus throw requires a combination of strength and technique.
• Discus thrower (n): An athlete who competes in the discus event.
  • She is one of the top discus throwers in the world.

Synonyms

• Disk: A more general term for a thin, flat, circular object. "Discus" is the specific term for the sports equipment.
• Plate: In some very general descriptive contexts, but not a direct synonym for the sports item.

Related Phrases

• Discus fish (n): This is a separate, specific term for a type of tropical freshwater fish, named for its round, flat shape. It is not related to the athletic meaning.
  • The aquarium had a beautiful tank of discus fish.

Noun

1. a disk used in throwing competitions
2. an athletic competition in which a disk-shaped object is thrown as far as possible