goalkeeper

noun

goal·​keep·​er ˈgōl-ˌkē-pər How to pronounce goalkeeper (audio)
: a player who defends the goal in any of various games (such as hockey, lacrosse, or soccer)

Examples of goalkeeper 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.
Netherlands teammates could be seen thanking goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen after his game-saving save minutes earlier. Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026 Galarza sent a cross to Enciso, who was unmarked by Germany's defenders and easily headed it past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Kyle Hightower, CBS News, 30 June 2026 Sweden half-clear the ball, but only as far as Ao Tanaka, who immediately switches the play again over to the left, where Kamada is there to meet it on the volley — but hits it straight at the goalkeeper. Michael Cox, New York Times, 29 June 2026 The shot sailed just out of reach of the outstretched hand of Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and into the net. Kristie Rieken, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for goalkeeper

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of goalkeeper was in 1789

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Goalkeeper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goalkeeper. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

goalkeeper

noun
goal·​keep·​er ˈgōl-ˌkē-pər How to pronounce goalkeeper (audio)
: a player who defends the goal in various games

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