closer

noun

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

Examples of closer in a Sentence

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.
Chapman is in the midst of a career season at age 37, turning back the clock to re-establish himself as one of baseball’s most dominant closers. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 31 Aug. 2025 The elite pitch arsenal Misiorowski has showcased in his 100-plus innings this season would instantly cement him as one of the best and nastiest closers in all of baseball. Andrew Wright, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Aug. 2025 The Padres, meantime, displayed a pair of healthy, above-average closers Thursday in Suarez and Miller. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Aug. 2025 At some point, though, the Giants will have to find out how well Rodriguez can bounce back when pushed a little harder, as closers need to be from time to time — especially in the postseason. Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for closer

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of closer was in 1607

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Closer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/closer. Accessed 13 Sep. 2025.

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