(ancient Rome) a professional combatant or a captive who entertained the public by engaging in mortal combat
"The gladiator fought to the death before cheering crowds in the Colosseum."
a professional boxer
"He trained for years as a gladiator, hoping to become the champion of the underground boxing circuit."
A person (professional or slave) who entertained the public by engaging in mortal combat with another, or with a wild animal.
"The ancient crowd roared as the gladiator stepped into the arena to face his opponent for life and death."
To fight as entertainment for others.
"The ancient crowd cheered wildly as the gladiator fought to the death in the arena."