goaltending

noun

goal·​tend·​ing ˈgōl-ˌten-diŋ 

1

: the act of guarding a goal (as in hockey)

2

: a violation in basketball that involves touching or deflecting a ball that is on its downward path toward the basket or on or within the rim of the basket

Examples of goaltending in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

He also is regarded as one of the inventors of the butterfly style of goaltending, later adopted by some of the greatest to play the position. —Chris Kuc, Chicago Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026

After a tough start, their goaltending has risen to middle of the pack, in part thanks to a surprising showing from third-string rookie Dennis Hildeby in 15 games. —James Mirtle, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2026

For the record, official Brian Forte acknowledged after the game that goaltending should have been called against Collins. —Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2026

Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood have formed the best goaltending duo in the NHL this season. —Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for goaltending

• amending
• appending
• ascending
• attending
• befriending
• commending
• contending
• defending
• depending
• descending
• distending
• expending