goalpost

noun

goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: 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
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.
Understanding The Human Risk Landscape The goalposts for securing an organization’s internal systems are constantly shifting. Masha Sedova, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025 Stand against a wall and slide bent arms up and down in a goalpost pattern. Stephanie Anderson Witmer, Health, 5 May 2025 That goalpost has shifted to securing a ceasefire within his first 100 days, or by the end of this month. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 16 Apr. 2025 Lowering the goalposts, however, could lead him toward a different, and more successful, path. Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for goalpost

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of goalpost was in 1842

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Goalpost.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goalpost. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

goalpost

noun
goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: one of two upright posts that serve as the goal in various games
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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