field goal

noun

1
: a score of three points in football made by drop-kicking or placekicking the ball over the crossbar from ordinary play
2
: a goal in basketball made while the ball is in play

Examples of field goal in a Sentence

He kicked a 20-yard field goal.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Panthers and Rams exchanged field goals in the third quarter to maintain Los Angeles' narrow lead heading into the game's final frame. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 11 Jan. 2026 Even if the Rams had scored with, say, 90 seconds to go instead of 38 seconds, because a blitz misfired, at least Carolina would have had time to try for a tying field goal and send the game into OT. Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 11 Jan. 2026 The Packers then drove to the Chicago 21, only to come away with nothing when McManus missed wide right on a 44-yard field goal attempt. CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026 Huff has cashed eight 3-point field goals in two games this season, becoming the first Mountaineer to hit eight or more 3s in multiple games. Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 10 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for field goal

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of field goal was in 1883

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Field goal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/field%20goal. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

field goal

noun
1
: a score of three points in football made by kicking the ball over the crossbar during ordinary play
2

More from Merriam-Webster on field goal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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