D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Gladiator

/glăd'-ē-ātˌ-ẽr/ · Glad·i·a·tor · IPA /ˈɡlædiˌeɪtɚ/
01 n. Originally, a swordplayer; hence, one who fought with weapons in public, either on the occasion of a funeral ceremony, or in the arena, for…
  1. 1.
    Originally, a swordplayer; hence, one who fought with weapons in public, either on the occasion of a funeral ceremony, or in the arena, for public amusement.
  2. 2.
    One who engages in any fierce combat or controversy.