Definition

A game or match where one team or player does not score any points.

Example

The final score was 3-0, resulting in a shutout for the winning team.

Conversation

Did you see the game last night?

Yeah, it was incredible! The other team got a shutout.

I can't believe they didn't score at all.

I know, right? That defense was on fire!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shutout is formed from "shut" (from Old English "scyttan", meaning to close or block) and "out" (meaning away from the inside). The word "shutout" refers to a situation where one team prevents the other from scoring, effectively closing them out of the game.

Memory Tip

Think of 'closing' ('shut') someone 'away' ('out') — that's why a shutout means keeping the other team from scoring.

Visually Confused Words