Fielder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fielder

[ˈfiːldər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cricket

A fielder is a player in the sport of cricket who is fielding, or preventing the ball from reaching the boundary or the batsman. Fielders are positioned around the field to catch the ball, stop runs, and dismiss batsmen.

Synonyms

catcher, fielding player, outfielder.

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Word Description / Examples
fielder

This term is a general reference to any player positioned in the field in both cricket and baseball.

  • A skilled fielder can make a significant difference in a game’s outcome.
  • He was renowned as one of the best fielders in the league.
fielding player

Typically used in cricket to refer to any player who is involved in fielding, distinguishing them from the bowler or wicketkeeper. Less commonly used in baseball.

  • The fielding player positioned himself near the boundary.
  • All fielding players must stay alert throughout the game.
outfielder

Refers specifically to a player in baseball or softball who plays in the outfield, the grassy area beyond the infield.

  • The outfielder caught a fly ball deep in the center field.
  • Our team needs a strong outfielder to cover more ground.
catcher

This is specifically used to describe a player who crouches behind home plate in baseball and catches pitches that the batter doesn't hit.

  • The catcher communicated with the pitcher using hand signals.
  • Our team's catcher is known for his quick reflexes.

Examples of usage

  • The fielder took a brilliant catch to dismiss the batsman.
  • The fielder saved four runs with a diving stop.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In cricket, fielders can take on specific roles like slip, gully, or wicketkeeper, each with unique responsibilities.
  • In baseball, the positioning of fielders is crucial, with specialized positions like center field and shortstop determining their strategic importance.
  • Fielders need a combination of speed, agility, and hand-eye coordination to effectively catch or stop the ball.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Field of Dreams' celebrate baseball and the roles of fielders, highlighting the importance of teamwork and skill.
  • Famous fielders, such as Willie Mays and Ozzie Smith, are often immortalized in sports highlights for their incredible catches.
  • Video games based on sports frequently simulate the precise actions of fielders, making player decisions critical to game outcomes.

Psychology

  • Athletes often train with mental visualization techniques, imagining themselves as successful fielders to improve performance.
  • Team dynamics play a role in how effectively fielders communicate, highlighting benefits in collaboration and strategy.
  • Fielders face pressure because their performance can directly impact the game's outcome, which can lead to psychological stress but also bonding within teams.

Origin of 'fielder'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fielder' comes from 'field,' which has roots in Old English as 'feld,' meaning an open land.
  • The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs a specific action, so a fielder is literally someone who works in the field.
  • The usage of 'fielder' was popularized in the late 19th century with the rise of organized baseball.

The term 'fielder' originated in the sport of cricket, which dates back to the 16th century in England. Fielders play a crucial role in the game by stopping runs, taking catches, and helping their team dismiss the opposition. Over time, the term has also been adopted in other sports such as baseball and softball to refer to players who defend against the opposing team's offense.


See also: field, fields, fieldworker, outfielder.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,013 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.