champion

n. [ F. champion, fr. LL.campio, of German origin; cf. OHG. chempho, chemphio, fighter, champf, G. kampf, contest; perh. influenced by L. campus field, taken in the sense of “field of battle.” ] 1. One who engages in any contest; especially one who in ancient times contended in single combat in behalf of another's honor or rights; or one who now acts or speaks in behalf of a person or a cause; a defender; an advocate; a hero. [ 1913 Webster ]

A stouter champion never handled sword. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

Champions of law and liberty. Fisher Ames. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. One who by defeating all rivals, has obtained an acknowledged supremacy in any branch of athletics or game of skill, and is ready to contend with any rival; as, the champion of England. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ Champion is used attributively in the sense of surpassing all competitors; overmastering; as, champion pugilist; champion chess player.

Syn. -- Leader; chieftain; combatant; hero; warrior; defender; protector. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Championed p. pr. & vb. n. Championing. ] [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To furnish with a champion; to attend or defend as champion; to support or maintain; to protect. [ 1913 Webster ]

Championed or unchampioned, thou diest. Sir W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ]