1. people who compete in a contest or competition
Usage: plural form of contestant

Examples

• The contestants lined up before the spelling bee began.
• All contestants must register by Friday to participate in the talent show.
• The game show featured twelve contestants competing for the grand prize.
• Contestants were judged on creativity, skill, and presentation.
• The cooking competition eliminated three contestants in the first round.
• Young contestants from across the state gathered for the science fair.
• The beauty pageant contestants practiced their routines backstage.