gladiator

n. [ L., fr. gladius sword. See Glaive. ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. One who engages in any fierce combat or controversy.

{ } a. Of or pertaining to gladiators, or to contests or combatants in general. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The art or practice of a gladiator. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. Conduct, state, or art, of a gladiator. [ 1913 Webster ]