agon

ag·on  (gn, -n, ä-gn)

n. pl. a·gon·es (-gnz)

1. A conflict, especially between the protagonist and antagonist in a work of literature.

2. The part of an ancient Greek drama, especially a comedy, in which two characters engage in verbal dispute.

3. A test of will; a conflict: "Freud's originality stemmed from his aggression and ambition in his agon with biology" (Harold Bloom).

4. A contest in ancient Greece, as in athletics or music, in which prizes were awarded.

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[Greek agn; see agony.]

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agon [ˈægəʊn -gɒn]

n pl agones [əˈgəʊniːz]

(Historical Terms) (in ancient Greece) a festival at which competitors contended for prizes. Among the best known were the Olympic, Pythian, Nemean, and Isthmian Games

[Greek: contest, from agein to lead]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

agon - a festivity in ancient Greece at which competitors contended for prizes festivity, celebration - any joyous diversion Isthmian Games - the ancient Panhellenic games held biennially on the Isthmus of Corinth in the first and third years of each Olympiad Nemean Games - the ancient Panhellenic games held biennially at Nemea in the second and fourth years of each Olympiad Olympian Games, Olympic Games - the ancient Panhellenic celebration at Olympia in honor of Zeus; held every 4 years beginning in 776 BC Pythian Games - the ancient Panhellenic celebration at Delphi held every four years in the third year of the Olympiad in honor of Apollo