goalpost

noun

goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst 

: one of usually two vertical posts that with or without a crossbar constitute the goal in various games

Examples of goalpost in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Our opponents responded by moving the goalpost and expanding their attacks. — Brittany Fonteno, Time, 17 Aug. 2026

Before every game, Worthy heads over to the goalpost and talks to his grandma, who passed away right before he was drafted. — Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026

The go-ahead for this futuristic taxi dramatically moves the goalposts for the autonomous industry. — New Atlas, 4 Aug. 2026

This might feel like a pretty significant milestone for you, one whose arrival is made possible because the rules temporarily changed, because the goalposts shifted, or because the obstacles in your way finally eased up. — Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for goalpost

• almost
• engrossed
• foremost
• hindmost
• impost
• inmost
• lamppost
• leftmost
• necrosed
• outpost
• pancoast
• rightmost

Kids Definition

goalpost

noun

goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst 

: one of two upright posts that serve as the goal in various games