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Agonistic

//aɡəˈnɪstɪk// adj

Definitions

Adjective
  1. 1
    Of or relating to contests that were originally participated in by the Ancient Greeks; athletic.

    "These words, with what follow, are for the most part agonistic, referring to the customes of the Grecian exercices, in their games. The words [translated] apprehended, signifie to catch, or apprehend the Crown, that hung over the Goal: so also [the word translated] perfect, is an Agonistic word that signifies the being crowned, or receiving the reward:"

  2. 2
    Characterised by conflict or hostility.

    "Although most agonistic interactions consist of signals of threat and submission, symbolic aggression is effective only because the possibility of escalation exists […]"

  3. 3
    Argumentative; combative. rhetoric

    "Sharply Frank said, “A place like this is a crimp in your plan, isn’t it?” Boone’s gaze returned to him. The surrounding crowd slipped away, sensing the agonistic nature of the exchange."

  4. 4
    Struggling to achieve an effect; strained and contrived.
  5. 5
    Pertaining to an agonist.
Adjective
  1. 1
    struggling for effect wordnet
  2. 2
    striving to overcome in argument wordnet
  3. 3
    of or relating to the athletic contests held in ancient Greece wordnet

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἀγωνιστικός (agōnistikós).

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