kicker

noun

kick·​er ˈki-kər 

1

: one that kicks or kicks something

2

: an unexpected and surprising remark, revelation, or set of circumstances

Examples of kicker in a Sentence

The real kicker came when the chairman announced that he was quitting.

Recent Examples on the Web

Three first-down passes set up rookie kicker Harrison Mevis for the 42-yard game-winning field goal and a rematch with Seattle, Super Bowl at stake. —Mirjam Swanson The Orange County Register, Arkansas Online, 22 Jan. 2026

Ramirez coached linemen and kickers at Bolsa Grande last season under coach Doug Cooper, who resigned after one season to spend more time with his family, Snyder said. —Dan Albano, Oc Register, 21 Jan. 2026

Toldeo kicker Dylan Cunanan replaces Tyler Robles, who transferred to Washington. —Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 21 Jan. 2026

Miami finally found Indiana territory with its final drive of the first half, but facing fourth-and-2 from the Hoosiers 32, Canes coach Mario Cristobal bled the clock down and sent out Carter Davis for a 50-yard field goal that the senior kicker promptly doinked off the right upright. —Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 20 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for kicker

• bicker
• dicker
• flicker
• liquor
• picker
• quicker
• ricker
• sicker
• slicker
• snicker
• sticker
• thicker