fair catch

noun

: a catch of a kicked football by a player who gives a prescribed signal, may not advance the ball, and may not be tackled
fair-catch
ˈfer-ˈkach How to pronounce fair catch (audio)
-ˈkech
transitive verb

Examples of fair catch 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.
Moore’s typical job is to field the ball with his receiving skills after calling a fair catch. Charlotte Observer, 24 Sep. 2025 The Cardinals punted, and Moore made a fair catch at the 6-yard line — to Shanahan’s dismay — and that pinned down the 49ers before the safety. Cam Inman, Mercury News, 22 Sep. 2025 In the first quarter, his fair catch on a punt inside the 5-yard line gave the Golden Bears better field position for their opening touchdown. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 14 Sep. 2025 The Titans trailed by one and had the ball at Denver’s 23-yard line midway through the fourth quarter after a muffed fair catch by Marvin Mims. Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fair catch

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fair catch was in 1891

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fair catch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fair%20catch. Accessed 1 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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