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

Rookie kicker Andy Borregales can argue a strong case, but falls short in the name-recognition department, which makes Chargers veteran Cameron Dicker and Houston’s Ka’imi Fairbairn more likely selections in a fan vote. —Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 28 Nov. 2025

The Los Angeles Rams have waived kicker Joshua Karty, who held the starting job for 1 1/2 seasons before being replaced by Harrison Mevis earlier this month. —CBS News, 28 Nov. 2025

Walking on to a college team as a kicker isn’t uncommon, but what Sayeri has done has been nothing short of unlikely. —Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 27 Nov. 2025

Defensive lineman Malcolm Roach, center Luke Wattenberg and kicker Wil Lutz aren’t superstars, but each is a key player in his own right, each was set to hit free agency after the season and now each is signed with the Broncos through at least 2028. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 27 Nov. 2025

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