compete

 
Pronunciation: /kəmˈpiːt/

verb

[no object]
  • strive to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others: universities are competing for applicants he competed with a number of other candidates (as adjective competing) competing political ideologies
  • [usually with negative] be able to rival another or others: no one can compete with his physical prowess
  • take part in a contest: he competed in numerous track meets as a child

Origin:

early 17th century: from Latin competere, in its late sense 'strive or contend for (something)', from com- 'together' + petere 'aim at, seek'