WordGarden.iovictory
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈɪktərˌi/
US
- /ˈvɪktəri/
Meanings
Noun
a win against an opponent in a game, election, battle, or other contest
success in overcoming a problem, difficulty, illness, or other challenge
Beyond the definition
Victory is not just about crossing the finish line first; it is about overcoming obstacles and reaching a goal. Think of David facing Goliath: the real meaning was not only winning the fight, but beating the odds through courage. Victory can be public, like winning a war or a game, or personal, like finally mastering a difficult skill. It usually suggests effort, struggle, and a strong feeling of accomplishment. You might celebrate a team's victory with fireworks, or quietly enjoy a personal victory after facing a fear.
Victory refers to success in a contest, battle, or other effort. While it is often linked to winning a sporting event, an election, or a military conflict, it can also describe personal success over challenges and hardship. It is more than just reaching a goal; it also carries the idea of effort, struggle, and the deep satisfaction that comes from overcoming obstacles.
Historically, "victory" had strong ties to warfare and conquest. Roman generals would parade through the streets in triumph after a successful campaign, showing their spoils and celebrating their power. Over time, the meaning became broader. Today, we speak of "victories" in areas like science (making an important discovery), business (winning a major deal), or personal growth (overcoming an addiction).
The word is used as a noun ("She savored her victory") and is closely related to the adjective "victorious." You might describe something as a victory: "This new law is a victory for environmental protection." You can also speak of the "taste of victory," meaning the satisfying feeling of success after a hard struggle.
Ultimately, victory represents not just an end result, but also perseverance, skill, and determination. It is a powerful word that brings to mind pride, accomplishment, and hope, reminding us that even in the face of difficulty, success is possible.
Examples
- 1
Sports
The team celebrated a 2-1 victory over their biggest rivals.
- 2
Election result
The ruling party secured a narrow victory in the election.
- 3
Legal rights
The court's decision was a major victory for free speech.
- Patternvictory for + person/group/idea
something that helps or supports them
- 4
Public claim
He claimed victory before the final results were even announced.
- Phraseclaim victory
say that you have won
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Parenting
Getting the baby to sleep before midnight felt like a small victory.
- 6
Moral success
Even though they lost the game, keeping the score so close felt like a moral victory.
- Phrasea moral victory
something that feels like a success even without an official win
- 7
Local elections
The party is hoping for more victories in next month's local elections.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- win a victory
- claim victory
- victory over
- pyrrhic victory
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- victorynoun
Forms
- victoriespluralnoun