A runner who specializes in short, fast races, usually 100 to 400 meters long.
From 'sprint' (origin uncertain, possibly from Scandinavian languages meaning 'to kick or jump') plus the suffix '-er' meaning 'one who does.' The term emerged in the late 1800s as organized track and field developed.
Sprinters and marathon runners have almost opposite body types and muscle chemistry—sprinters rely on fast-twitch muscle fibers for explosive power, while distance runners develop slow-twitch fibers for endurance. This shows how specialization shapes not just training but actual physical adaptation!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.