closer

noun

clos·​er ˈklō-zər How to pronounce closer (audio)
Synonyms of closernext
: one that closes
especially : a relief pitcher who specializes in finishing games

Examples of closer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Formerly a longtime nemesis of the Mets, Kimbrel was one of the best closers of the 2010s. Will Sammon, New York Times, 25 Jan. 2026 That’s a group that could and should be upgraded, but the Yankees, typically adverse to spending lavishly on bullpen help, passed over a free agent class that included a few closers and high-leverage relievers. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 22 Jan. 2026 The available arms that remain are not inherently bona fide closers but could provide high-leverage depth. Shawn McFarland, Dallas Morning News, 14 Jan. 2026 Suarez represents the last major domino to fall in a robust market for free agent closers. Jon Paul Hoornstra, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for closer

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of closer was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Closer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/closer. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

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