contestant

A contestant is a person who participates in a contest or competition, typically under a defined set of rules. The term is used across many domains such as entertainment, sports, academia, and public contests, where participants are evaluated and may advance through rounds. While similar to competitor or entrant, contestant emphasizes participation within a formal contest with adjudication or voting.

Eligibility and entry: Contestants are usually subject to prerequisites such as age limits, residency, entry fees, or auditions. Selection may involve applications, auditions, or invitations.

Judging and advancement: Performance is assessed according to predefined criteria, which may be objective (scores, times) or subjective (judges' scoring). In elimination formats, contestants progress through rounds or brackets, while others advance by earning votes.

Outcomes and use: Winners receive prizes, titles, or opportunities; runners-up may receive lesser awards. The concept also appears in pageants, talent shows, sports qualifiers, and academic competitions. Etymology: The word derives from Latin contestare 'to contend', via Old French contestant, meaning one who contends.