pinch-hit

1 of 2

verb

ˈpinch-ˈhit 

ˌpinch-

pinch-hit; pinch-hitting; pinch-hits

intransitive verb

1

: to act or serve in place of another

2

: to bat in the place of another player especially when a hit is particularly needed

pinch hit

2 of 2

noun

: a hit made by a pinch hitter

Synonyms of pinch-hit

Verb

• substitute

Examples of pinch-hit in a Sentence

Verb

assigned to pinch-hit as a math teacher for the remainder of the semester

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Chestnut popped up to second base before Blake Binderup, pinch-hitting for Royo, popped up to right field. —Tony Catalina, Austin American Statesman, 21 Feb. 2026

The Giants have come a long way from Mark Mathias pinch-hitting for Brandon Crawford. —Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2026

Noun

From there, Jorian Wilson pinch hit for Kiel II and hit a double that drove in another run before Sorrell's single drove in Wilson for the Aggies' 21st run of the game. —Tony Catalina, Austin American Statesman, 24 Feb. 2026

One of them is likely to fall short of the roster, particularly if the Rangers find a way to keep DH-OF Mark Canha, who could be a late-game pinch hit option and occasional corner outfielder. —Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Verb

back-formation from pinch hitter

First Known Use

Verb

1911, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1927, in the meaning defined above