bodybuilding

noun

body·​build·​ing ˈbä-dē-ˌbil-diŋ How to pronounce bodybuilding (audio)
: the developing of the body through exercise and diet
specifically : the developing of the physique for competitive exhibition
bodybuilder noun

Examples of bodybuilding in a Sentence

She's been doing competitive bodybuilding for a few years now.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Before bodybuilding there was only running or churning endless miles on the Stairmaster. Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2025 Now, after 10 years of work, the Miami woman takes the stage for bodybuilding competition. Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025 Josse was complaining of severe stomach pain following a bodybuilding event. Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Aug. 2025 Since 2016, Prescott has been pursuing bodybuilding and appeared on the reality show Body Fixers. Meredith Wilshere, People.com, 24 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bodybuilding

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bodybuilding was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Bodybuilding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bodybuilding. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

bodybuilding

noun
body·​build·​ing ˈbäd-ē-ˌbil-diŋ How to pronounce bodybuilding (audio)
: the developing of the body through exercise and diet
bodybuilder
-ˌbil-dər
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on bodybuilding

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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