gladiator Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (ancient Rome) a professional combatant or a captive who entertained the public by engaging in mortal combat
  2. noun a professional boxer
    prizefighter.

WordNet

Glad"i*a`tor noun
Etymology
L., fr. gladius sword. See Glaive.
Definitions
  1. Originally, a swordplayer; hence, one who fought with weapons in public, either on the occasion of a funeral ceremony, or in the arena, for public amusement.
  2. One who engages in any fierce combat or controversy.

Webster 1913