Pigskin: meaning, definitions and examples
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pigskin
[ ˈpɪɡˌskɪn ]
sports term
Pigskin commonly refers to the leather used to make American footballs. The term originated from the use of pig bladder in the early footballs, which were then covered with leather. Over time, the term evolved to describe the ball itself, regardless of its actual material. The use of pig skin also evokes a sense of tradition in the sport. In casual conversations, saying 'pigskin' can invoke feelings of nostalgia among football fans.
Synonyms
football, gridiron ball, leather ball
Examples of usage
- The team practiced their passing skills with a new pigskin.
- He tossed the pigskin around with his friends at the park.
- During the Super Bowl, the pigskin is the star of the show.
Translations
Translations of the word "pigskin" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pele de porco
🇮🇳 सुअर की चमड़ी
🇩🇪 Schweinsleder
🇮🇩 kulit babi
🇺🇦 свинина
🇵🇱 skóra wieprzowa
🇯🇵 豚皮
🇫🇷 peau de porc
🇪🇸 piel de cerdo
🇹🇷 domuz derisi
🇰🇷 돼지 피부
🇸🇦 جلد الخنزير
🇨🇿 vydří kůže
🇸🇰 prasečia koža
🇨🇳 猪皮
🇸🇮 svinjska koža
🇮🇸 svínskin
🇰🇿 шошқа терісі
🇬🇪 ღორის ტყავი
🇦🇿 donuz dərisi
🇲🇽 piel de cerdo
Etymology
The word 'pigskin' has its origins in the late 19th century, a time when American football was still developing its unique identity separate from rugby. Initially, footballs were made using pig bladders as their inner lining, which were then encased in leather for durability and grip. This connection to the pig was so strong that even as manufacturing processes evolved—using cowhide and synthetic materials, the term 'pigskin' remained popular. By the early 20th century, 'pigskin' had become synonymous with the sport of football itself. The evolution of the game from a rough-and-tumble sport to the highly organized game we know today was accompanied by the enduring legacy of this term. It represents not just the physical ball but also the history, culture, and excitement surrounding American football.