Vocabulary Spotlight

Baseball

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, where players score by hitting the ball and running bases.

“The baseball game attracted a large crowd of cheering fans.”

Pronunciation

[ˈbeɪs-ˌbɔl]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Softball
Ball game
Bat-and-ball game
Game
National pastime

Antonyms

Non-sport
Chess
Cards
Board game
Table game

Related Words

Pitcher (noun)
Home run (noun)
Strike (noun)

Word Origin

The word “baseball” combines “base,” referring to the bases players run, and “ball,” as it involves hitting a ball. The game originated in the mid-1800s in North America.

Word Family

Noun: Baseball – The sport involving hitting and running bases.

Noun: Pitcher – The player who throws the ball.

Noun: Batter – The player attempting to hit the ball.

Mnemonics

Base Athletes Score Each Ball Actually Lands – Helps recall that “baseball” involves scoring by running bases after hitting the ball.

Industry-specific Usage

Sports

In sports, baseball is known as “America’s pastime,” with a major league system, popular teams, and fans globally.

Fitness

In fitness, baseball players focus on agility, speed, and coordination for batting, pitching, and base running.

Education

In education, baseball is often included in physical education curricula to develop teamwork and motor skills.

In Context

Baseball is a widely popular sport that involves skill, teamwork, and strategy. Known for its cultural significance in the United States, it is also played worldwide. The game provides entertainment, community bonding, and promotes physical fitness.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which of the following is related to “baseball”?

Pitcher
Dealer
Vendor
Consumer

“Pitcher” is correct, as it refers to a key player role in baseball.

2. Fill in the blank: She attended her first _______ game last summer.

soccer
basketball
chess
baseball

“Baseball” is correct, as it describes the type of game.

3. In which context would “baseball” be least appropriate?

Sports competitions
Physical education
Outdoor activities
Card games

“Card games” is correct, as baseball involves physical sports, not tabletop activities.