noun
challenger
CHA-lihn-zhuh
noun
1
A person who challenges someone else, especially by competing against a title-holder or champion.
"The reigning champion faced a tough challenger in the final."
"A new challenger has entered the race for mayor."
How to Use Challenger
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone competing against, or disputing the position of, an established leader or champion.
Common pairings
title challenger
challenger for the crown
Word Forms
challengers plural
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The reigning champion faced a tough _____ in the final.
Etymology
From Middle English chalengere, from Old French chalenger ("to challenge").