sportsmanlike

Gracious in competition

Sportsmanlike describes behavior that shows fairness, respect for opponents, and graciousness in competition—whether winning or losing.

A sportsmanlike player shakes hands after a loss, doesn't gloat after a win, and plays by both the rules and their spirit: That was a sportsmanlike gesture, helping the fallen runner back up.

honorable

honor

High regard, moral dignity

virtue · uprightness · trustworthiness · character · nobility · rectitude · moral fiber · conscience · ethics · high-mindedness

fairplay

fairness

Just and equal treatment

evenhanded · unbiased · level playing field · objectivity · neutrality · square dealing · legitimate · lawful · good faith · even-handed

gracious

graciousness

Courteous, kind demeanor

dignity · grace · magnanimity · good loser · handshake · restraint · poise · class · decorum · aplomb

respectful

respect

Regard with honor

consideration · deference · acknowledgment · tactfulness · decency · etiquette · propriety · cordiality · collegiality · mutual respect

competitive

rivalry

Ongoing contest between opponents

championship · match · game · athletic · teamwork · competition · playing field · arena · league · good sport

Opposites
fair play and ethical conduct

sportsmanlikeunsportsmanlike

Contrary to athletic ethics

unsporting · dirty · unfair · foul · underhanded

graciousness in winning and losing

sportsmanlikepoor sport

One who handles defeat badly

bad sport · sore loser · ungracious · petty · churlish

Family

unsportsmanlike

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G