Definition

Noun: A person or team that currently holds a championship title or has won first place in a competition. This term refers to the reigning champion.

Usage

The word "title-holder" is used to specify the current champion in a sport, contest, or competitive field. It emphasizes the present possession of a title earned by a prior victory.

Examples

• The reigning title-holder will defend their championship next month.
• She is the current title-holder in the national spelling bee.
• The team entered the tournament as the defending title-holders.

Advanced Usage

• "Reigning title-holder": A common phrase used for extra clarity to emphasize that the person is the current champion.
  • The reigning title-holder faced a strong challenge from the newcomer.

Variants and Related Words

• Champion (n): A very close synonym for "title-holder," often used interchangeably.
• Defending champion (n): Specifically refers to a title-holder who is competing to keep their title.
• Title (n): The championship or distinction that the title-holder possesses.

Synonyms

• Champion
• Winner
• Titleist (specific to golf)
• Reigning champion
• Incumbent champion

Antonyms

• Challenger
• Contender
• Runner-up

Noun

1. someone who has won first place in a competition