1. a person who fights with the fists; a boxer
Usage: formal

Examples

• The famous pugilist trained for months before the championship match.
• He was known as a skilled pugilist in the local boxing circuit.
• The retired pugilist now coaches young fighters at the gym.
• Many consider him the greatest pugilist of his generation.
• The pugilist’s powerful jab made him a formidable opponent.
• She studied the techniques of legendary pugilists from boxing history.