Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Chappion \Chap"pi*on\, n. [F. champion, fr. LL. campio, of
   German origin; cf. OHG. chempho, chemphio, fighter, champf,
   G. kampf, contest; perh. influenced by L. campus field, taken
   in the sense of ``field of battle.'']
   1. One who engages in any contest; esp. one who in ancient
      times contended in single combat in behalf of another's
      honor or rights; or one who acts or speaks in behalf of a
      person or a cause; a defender; an advocate; a hero.

            A stouter champion never handled sword. --Shak.

            Champions of law and liberty.         --Fisher Ames.

   2. One who by defeating all rivals, has obtained an
      acknowledged supremacy in any branch of athetics or game
      of skill, and is ready to contend with any rival; as, the
      champion of England.

   Note: Champion is used attributively in the sense of
         surpassing all competitors; overmastering; as, champion
         pugilist; champion chess player.

   Syn: Leader; chieftain; combatant; hero; warrior; defender;
        protector.