Definition

In baseball, this term refers to an out that occurs when a batter receives three strikes during their turn at bat, which is counted against the batter and credited to the pitcher.

Example

The pitcher was proud to have achieved a strikeout in the final inning of the game.

Conversation

Did you see the game last night?

Yeah, I can't believe he got a strikeout in the last inning!

It was impressive how he handled the pressure.

Definitely! That strikeout secured the win for them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Strikeout → It is formed from "strike" (from Old English "strican", meaning to touch or strike) and "out" (meaning away or outside). The word "strikeout" refers to the act of a batter failing to hit the ball and being declared out in baseball, thus being struck out of the play.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'striking' something and then 'going out' — when a batter strikes out, they are out of the game.

Visually Confused Words