Ballplayer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ballplayer
[ˈbɔːlˌpleɪər ]
Definition
sports player
A ballplayer is an athlete who plays a sport that involves a ball, such as baseball, basketball, or soccer. Typically, ballplayers are skilled in their respective sports and participate in competitive games or leagues. They train regularly to improve their physical abilities, strategy, and teamwork. Ballplayers can vary in position, each specializing in different roles, contributing to the overall success of their team.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He became a professional ballplayer after college.
- The ballplayer hit a home run in the championship game.
- She trains every day to become a better ballplayer.
- Many young kids dream of being a ballplayer when they grow up.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Famous ballplayers like Babe Ruth and Michael Jordan are cultural icons, inspiring movies and documentaries.
- Video games like 'NBA 2K' and 'MLB The Show' feature ballplayers, allowing fans to virtually experience their skills.
Sports History
- The first recorded baseball game with a defined number of players took place in 1846 in New Jersey.
- Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, who started with just 18 players.
Psychology
- Team sports help improve social skills and teamwork, crucial traits for successful ballplayers.
- Studies show that playing sports can boost self-esteem and overall mental health.
Literature
- Ballplayers are often portrayed in literature as symbols of ambition, struggle, and the pursuit of dreams.
- Books like 'Shoeless Joe' (which inspired the movie 'Field of Dreams') highlight the deep connection between players and the cultural history of sports.
Origin of 'ballplayer'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'ball' comes from the Old Norse word 'bǫllr', meaning 'a round object'.
- The word 'player' has its roots in the Latin 'plicare', meaning 'to fold or to engage', evolving through Middle English.
The term 'ballplayer' dates back to the 19th century, derived from the combination of 'ball,' which refers to a spherical object used in various games, and 'player,' denoting someone who participates in a game or sport. The word emerged primarily in the context of baseball, a sport that gained immense popularity in America during this time. As baseball evolved into a major American pastime, the term 'ballplayer' became synonymous with professional and amateur athletes alike who participated in the sport. Over the years, the definition of ballplayer expanded to include athletes in various other ball-related sports, reflecting the growth and diversification of sports culture. Today, the term is used broadly across different sports disciplines and remains a staple in discussions about athleticism and competition.