\Chap"pi*on\, n. [F. champion, fr. LL. campio, of
German origin; cf. OHG. chempho, chemphio, fighter, champf,
G. kampf, contest; perh. influenced by L. campus field, taken
in the sense of ``field of battle.'']
1. One who engages in any contest; esp. one who in ancient
   times contended in single combat in behalf of another's
   honor or rights; or one who acts or speaks in behalf of a
   person or a cause; a defender; an advocate; a hero.
         A stouter champion never handled sword. --Shak.
         Champions of law and liberty.         --Fisher Ames.
2. One who by defeating all rivals, has obtained an
   acknowledged supremacy in any branch of athetics or game
   of skill, and is ready to contend with any rival; as, the
   champion of England.
Note: Champion is used attributively in the sense of
      surpassing all competitors; overmastering; as, champion
      pugilist; champion chess player.
Syn: Leader; chieftain; combatant; hero; warrior; defender;
     protector.