marathon

mar-a-thon · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A long-distance running race of 42.195 kilometers (26 miles 385 yards).

  2. 2.

    Characterized by great length or endurance.

  3. 3.

    Any prolonged and exhausting task or activity.

Forms

plural: marathons

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    marathon runner — a person who runs marathons
  • •
    movie marathon — watching multiple films in succession
  • •
    marathon session — an extended period of activity

Related words

Antonyms: sprint
See also: endurance, race, running, sprint
Synonyms: endurance event, long-distance race

Etymology

From Greek Marathṓn, the site of a battle in 490 BCE. According to legend, a messenger ran from Marathon to Athens (about 25 miles) to announce the Greek victory, then collapsed and died. The modern race commemorates this feat.