Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Athletics \Ath*let"ics\, n.
   The art of training by athletic exercises; the games and
   sports of athletes.

Source : WordNet®

athletics
     n 1: an active diversion requiring physical exertion and
          competition [syn: {sport}]
     2: a contest between athletes [syn: {athletic contest}, {athletic
        competition}]
     3: participation in sports events as an extracurricular
        activity