Definition

A player in baseball who plays in the field between second and third base, responsible for catching and throwing the ball to get players out.

Example

The shortstop made an incredible play to catch the line drive and throw the runner out at first base.

Conversation

Did you see how the shortstop made that amazing catch yesterday?

Yeah, that was incredible! I can't believe he got to the ball so fast.

I know! The shortstop really saved the game for them.

For sure, he was on fire all night!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shortstop → It is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning brief or small in length) and "stop" (from Old English *stoppian*, meaning to close or block). The term refers to a position in baseball where a player stands between second and third base, effectively 'stopping' the ball from going further.

Memory Tip

Think of a player who is 'brief' ('short') in their position, 'stopping' the ball from advancing — that's what a shortstop does.

Visually Confused Words