'athlete' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'athlētēs', where 'athlos' meant 'contest' or 'feat'.

'athlētēs' passed into Latin as 'athleta', then through Medieval/Old French and Middle English forms (such as 'athelete') and eventually became the modern English word 'athlete'.

Initially, it meant 'one who competes for a prize' or 'contestant', but over time it evolved into the current meaning of 'a person trained or skilled in physical sports'.