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Synonyms

contender

American  
[kuhn-ten-der] / kənˈtɛn dər /

noun

  1. a person or group that competes against others to win something; contestant.

    The three remaining contenders for the Democratic Party nomination met for a televised debate.

  2. a person or group with a good chance of success in a contest.

    After last season’s disaster, the Texas team needed to convince me they were a contender.


Etymology

Origin of contender

contend ( def. ) + -er 1 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the film categories, just two weeks before the Academy Awards, the top contenders are “One Battle After Another” and “Sinners.”

From Los Angeles Times

Since then, Spurs have sacked three permanent managers, while Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta - in charge for the past six years - has developed his side into consistent title contenders.

From BBC

Lola Young's Messy - another unflinching portrait of romantic disharmony - is a strong contender for song of the year.

From BBC

Who are the top teams to watch in City Section high school baseball and likely contenders to reach Dodger Stadium?

From Los Angeles Times

"We are not contenders to be in the top five," Emery said last month.

From BBC