1. periods of four years between Olympic Games
2. international academic competitions, especially in mathematics or science
3. celebrations of the Olympic Games

Examples

• Three olympiads have passed since the last major rule change.
• She won gold medals in two consecutive olympiads.
• The student excelled in mathematics olympiads throughout high school.
• International olympiads attract the brightest young minds from around the world.
• The chemistry olympiad requires extensive preparation and study.
• Ancient Greeks measured time by counting olympiads.
• Modern olympiads continue the tradition of international athletic competition.