contender

Definitions

A person or group competing with others for a prize, honor, or advantage.

A person or thing that has a realistic chance of winning or achieving something.

Examples

After his impressive performance last season, he is now considered a serious contender for the championship title.

The small startup has emerged as a major contender in the competitive software market.

She trained rigorously for months to ensure she would be a top contender in the upcoming marathon.

Synonyms

competitor challenger rival contestant candidate entrant aspirant

Antonyms

spectator bystander nonparticipant observer outsider loser failure