Meaning of the word gladiator in English

What does gladiator mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

gladiator

US /ˈɡlæd.i.eɪ.t̬ɚ/
UK /ˈɡlæd.i.eɪ.tər/

Noun

1.

a man trained to fight with weapons against other men or wild animals in an arena for the entertainment of the public in ancient Rome

Example:
The crowd cheered as the gladiator entered the arena.
Many films depict the brutal lives of Roman gladiators.
2.

a person who fights for a cause or principle

Example:
She was a true gladiator for human rights.
The lawyer acted as a gladiator for his client in court.