agonistic

adj

1. Of or relating to contests that were originally participated in by the Ancient Greeks; athletic.

   “These words, with what follow, are for the most part agonistic, referring to the customes of the Grecian exercices, in their games. The words [translated] apprehended, signifie to catch, or apprehend the Crown, that hung over the Goal: so also [the word translated] perfect, is an Agonistic word that signifies the being crowned, or receiving the reward:”

   “Joys of the solitary walk, the spirit bow’d yet proud, the suffering and the struggle? The agonistic throes, the ecstasies, joys of the solemn musings day or night?”

2. Characterised by conflict or hostility.

   “Although most agonistic interactions consist of signals of threat and submission, symbolic aggression is effective only because the possibility of escalation exists […]”

   “This was clearly such an event, but like the ancient religion of Israel, it was also deeply agonistic.”

   “Sociality swung wildly between extremes of collective affiliation and agonistic striving for dominance.”

3. (rhetoric)Argumentative; combative.

   “Sharply Frank said, “A place like this is a crimp in your plan, isn’t it?” Boone’s gaze returned to him. The surrounding crowd slipped away, sensing the agonistic nature of the exchange.”

4. Struggling to achieve an effect; strained and contrived.
5. Pertaining to an agonist.