Placekicked: meaning, definitions and examples

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placekicked

 

[ pleɪsˌkɪkt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

sports action

To placekick is to kick a ball, particularly in sports like American football or soccer, from a stationary position on the ground. The kick typically takes place after the ball has been placed on a tee or held by another player. Placekicks are usually executed in specific situations, such as attempting a field goal, an extra point after a touchdown, or a penalty kick in soccer. The placement and angle of the kick are crucial for its success, requiring both skill and precision from the kicker.

Synonyms

kick, shoot, strike

Examples of usage

  • The quarterback decided to placekick for the winning field goal.
  • During the game, the player successfully placekicked from 50 yards.
  • She was nervous as she prepared to placekick for the first time in front of a crowd.

Etymology

The term 'placekick' originated from the combination of 'place' and 'kick'. 'Place' in this context refers to the positioning of the ball, and 'kick' is the action performed on the ball. The practice of kicking a ball while it is held in place has its roots in various sports dating back to the 19th century. Placekicking became particularly prominent in American football with the establishment of its formal rules. As sports evolved, placekicking techniques were refined, leading to specialized training for players. The term has since become a standardized part of sports vocabulary, signifying a specific method of kicking a ball.