Goalkeeper
/ˈɡəʊlkiːpər/
Definitions
The player in a team sport whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring by stopping the ball or puck from entering the goal.
/ˈɡəʊlkiːpər/
The player who defends the goal in a game
The goalkeeper dived to his left and made a stunning save.
💡 Simply: Imagine a soccer game. The goalkeeper is the super-important person who stands in front of the net and tries to stop the other team from scoring a goal! They have to be quick and brave!
👶 For kids: The person in a game who tries to stop the ball from going into the goal.
More Examples
Our team's success depends heavily on a strong goalkeeper.
He was a legendary goalkeeper, known for his agility and reflexes.
How It's Used
"The goalkeeper made a spectacular save to prevent a goal."
"The hockey goalkeeper uses pads and a helmet to protect themselves from the puck."
From "goal" (the target in a game) + "keeper" (one who protects). The term emerged with the development of organized team sports, particularly association football (soccer) and hockey.
The term 'goalkeeper' has been used since the late 19th century with the rise of organized team sports like football. Early uses emphasize their role of protecting the goal area.
Memory tip
Think of the person who 'keeps' the goal safe.