left field

noun

1
: the position of the player defending left field
2
: the part of the baseball outfield to the left looking out from the plate
3
a
: a state or position far from the mainstream (as of prevailing opinion)
they were really out in left field with that idea
b
: a source of the unexpected or illogical
that question came out of left field
left fielder noun

Examples of left field 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.
For a hint regarding as to whether the Padres think Lockridge currently is the full-time answer in left field, consider that Tyler Wade pinch-hit for him against a righty in the ninth inning last night. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 May 2025 Campbell has made 33 appearances at second base, four in center field and two in left field — a testament to his versatility, athleticism, and willing to move around the field as the team's needs dictate. Jon Paul Hoornstra, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025 Not that Alaniz, who started in left field when Portage won the Class 4A state title in her senior season in 2013, has been surprised. Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2025 Jesse Dominguez had an RBI double in the first inning by hitting the ball off the net in left field. Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for left field

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of left field was in 1857

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Left field.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/left%20field. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

left field

noun
1
: the part of the baseball outfield to the left looking out from home plate
2
: the position of the player defending left field
left fielder noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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