Definition

Noun: A matman is a combatant, specifically in wrestling, whose primary objective is to throw their opponent to the ground. The term directly refers to a wrestler.

Usage and Examples

The word matman is a specific term for a wrestler, emphasizing the action of grappling on a mat. * The experienced matman quickly gained control of the match. * He trained for years to become a champion matman.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in sports journalism and commentary to describe or refer to wrestlers, particularly in amateur styles like collegiate or Greco-Roman wrestling.
• It can be used figuratively to describe someone who is tenacious or engaged in a difficult struggle, though this is less common.
  • The negotiator was a real matman in the tough bargaining sessions.

Variants and Related Words

• Wrestler (n): The more common and general term for a person who wrestles.
• Grappler (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with wrestler.

Synonyms

• Wrestler
• Grappler

Related Phrases/Idioms

• On the mat: Literally refers to being on the wrestling mat; can figuratively mean being in the midst of a struggle or contest.
  • The two matmen were on the mat for three intense periods.

Noun

1. combatant who tries to throw opponent to the ground