Kicker: meaning, definitions and examples

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kicker

 

[ˈkɪkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sports position

A kicker is a player in American football or rugby who is responsible for kicking the ball during plays such as field goals, kick-offs, or conversions. This position is crucial for scoring points and can often be the difference in close games.

Synonyms

football player, rugby player.

Examples of usage

  • The kicker successfully made the 50-yard field goal.
  • Our team’s kicker scored the most points this season.
  • During the game, the kicker made a clutch kick to win in overtime.
Context #2 | Noun

mechanical device

In machinery, a kicker can refer to a mechanical device that pushes or ejects items from a production line or assembly machine. It is often used in manufacturing settings to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

Synonyms

ejector, pusher.

Examples of usage

  • The kicker ejected the finished product from the production line.
  • He watched as the kicker operated smoothly during the assembly process.
  • We need to adjust the kicker for better timing on the assembly line.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'kicker' has its roots in the verb 'kick,' which comes from the Old English word 'cyccan' meaning to strike or hit.
  • In the late 1800s, the word began to be used in American football to describe players responsible for kicking the ball.

Sports

  • In American football, kickers are vital for scoring through field goals and extra points after touchdowns.
  • The first professional kicker in football was Pat Summerall, who became famous for his accuracy and technique.

Culture

  • In the world of professional wrestling, a 'kicker' can refer to a performer who uses kicking maneuvers as part of their fighting style.
  • In popular culture, the term 'kicker' can also refer to an unexpected twist in a story or event, keeping the audience engaged.

Psychology

  • The position of being a kicker in a team sport can impact a player's self-esteem, as they often have high-pressure moments in games.
  • Research shows that athletes in specialized roles like kickers may develop unique mental strategies to excel, focusing on precision and calmness.

Translations

Translations of the word "kicker" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chutar

🇮🇳 किकर

🇩🇪 Kicker

🇮🇩 penendang

🇺🇦 ударник

🇵🇱 kicker

🇯🇵 キッカー

🇫🇷 kicker

🇪🇸 pateador

🇹🇷 vuruşçu

🇰🇷 킥커

🇸🇦 مُركل

🇨🇿 kopáč

🇸🇰 kopáč

🇨🇳 踢球者

🇸🇮 udarec

🇮🇸 sparkari

🇰🇿 шабуылшы

🇬🇪 კიკერი

🇦🇿 vurucu

🇲🇽 pateador

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,434, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.