Meaning & Definition of word "Softball"
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Softball
ˈsɔftˌbɔl
noun:
- 1. A variant of baseball played with a larger, softer ball on a smaller field, typically by teams of nine players.
- Example: The high school has a strong girls' softball team that competes in the state championship.
- 2. The ball used in the game of softball, which is larger and softer than a baseball.
- Example: He threw the softball with impressive speed during practice.
- 3. A casual or easy question or task, often used in a figurative sense.
- Example: The interview started with some softballs before moving on to tougher questions.
Etymology
The term 'softball' was coined in 1887, combining 'soft' and 'ball' to describe the game.
Common Phrases and Expressions
playing softball:
Engaging in the game of softball.
softball season:
The time of year designated for playing softball.
softball league:
A group of teams that play softball against each other.
Related Words
baseball:
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams of nine players.
pitcher:
The player who throws the ball to the batter.
slugger:
A player known for their power hitting.
Slang Meanings of softball
Meaning: Playing it easy or not taking something seriously.
Example Sentence: Stop playing softball on the project; we need to be serious.
Meaning: A gentle or overly lenient approach.
Example Sentence: The coach took a softball approach with the new players.