redshirt

noun

red·​shirt ˈred-ˌshərt How to pronounce redshirt (audio)
: a college athlete who is kept out of varsity competition for a year in order to extend eligibility
redshirt verb

Examples of redshirt 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.
The Florida Gator redshirt sophomore is in the field with the 2010 U.S. Open champ, Graeme McDowell. Savannah Leigh Richardson, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025 Trailing 3-1 heading into the top of the sixth inning, Liberty redshirt sophomore Savannah Jessee homered to bring in senior KK Madrey and knot the game at 3. Lauren Merola, New York Times, 19 May 2025 Currently with the Chargers, who signed him last month, Lance has thrown for 1,063 yards and five touchdowns in 12 NFL games. 2020: Ben DiNucci, James Madison Round 7, No. 231 | Dallas Cowboys DiNucci began his career at Pitt and made six starts as a redshirt sophomore in 2017. Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025 This will be his fourth year with the Tigers, coming in as a redshirt junior and having his first real opportunity at becoming a starter. Chase Gemez, Kansas City Star, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for redshirt

Word History

Etymology

from the red jersey commonly worn by such a player in practice scrimmages against the regulars

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of redshirt was in 1955

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Redshirt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/redshirt. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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