Definition

A player in cricket who stands behind the stumps to catch the ball and make plays against the opposing team.

Example

The wicketkeeper made an incredible catch during the match.

Conversation

Did you see the match yesterday?

Yeah, the wicketkeeper made some incredible catches!

I know, right? I think he really saved the game for them.

Absolutely, without him, they would have lost for sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wicketkeeper → The word is formed from "wicket" (from Middle English *wicket*, meaning a small door or gate) and "keeper" (from Old English *cepan*, meaning to seize or hold). A wicketkeeper is someone who keeps or guards the small door or gate in the context of cricket, where they stand behind the wicket to catch the ball.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small door' ('wicket') that needs someone to 'guard' it ('keeper') — that's why a wicketkeeper is the player who stands behind the wicket in cricket.

Visually Confused Words