The action of sport, v. (in various senses); an instance of this. Cf. disporting, n.1

The action of play, v. in various senses.

sporting of nature: the action on the part of nature of producing an anomalous form or variety; an instance or occasion of this. Obsolete.

With the. By metonymy: participation or competition in a sport, esp. as a professional. Frequently in off the field, on the field; cf. off-field adj.…