champions

NOUN

defeater in competition; preeminent supporter

Synonyms

STRONGEST

challenger champ defender hero medalist number one winner

STRONG

advocate ally backer conqueror endorser exponent expounder guardian heroine nonpareil paladin partisan patron proponent protector supporter sympathizer upholder vanquisher victor vindicator warrior

WEAK

numero uno the greatest titleholder top dog

Antonyms

STRONG

antagonist enemy loser opponent opposition

VERB

advocate, support

Synonyms

STRONGEST

defend espouse fight for promote uphold

STRONG

back battle contend patronize support

WEAK

go to bat for plead for put in a good word for ride shotgun for side with stand behind stand up for thump for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

forsake

STRONG

oppose

WEAK

be against

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

champions

The Three Lions were five minutes from a first final appearance in 60 years, until the defending champions produced a two-goal sucker punch to rescue a 2-1 win.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 16, 2026

They are an experienced and streetwise team, and they are also the defending champions.

From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2026

The Argentine squad — reigning world champions led by seemingly ageless superstar Lionel Messi — faces off Wednesday in a semifinal match against England.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 15, 2026

The pair will resume one of international football's most storied rivalries at the Atlanta Stadium, as England bid to defeat the defending champions and reach their first World Cup final since 1966.

From BBC ● Jul. 14, 2026

“Who’s this impartial judge who’s going to decide who the champions are?” said Harry.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling