sinker

noun

sink·​er ˈsiŋ-kər How to pronounce sinker (audio)
1
: one that sinks
specifically : a weight for sinking a fishing line, seine, or sounding line
2
3
: a fastball that sinks as it reaches the plate

called also sinker ball

Examples of sinker 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.
Brown’s 95 mph sinker ran in, and Neto, who crowds the plate, couldn’t get out of the way. Sam Blum, New York Times, 21 June 2025 Bryce Johnson followed with a single to right, and after a Martín Maldonado strikeout, Tatis yanked a 1-0 sinker over the wall in left on a 108 mph line for a 5-1 lead. Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 June 2025 Brown was up 0-1 in the count, and Brown's 95 mph sinker ran in on Neto, hitting the Angels shortstop in the hand. Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 21 June 2025 Maikel Garcia lifted a 90.8 mph sinker over the left-center field wall. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sinker

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sinker was in 1526

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

sinker

noun
sink·​er ˈsiŋ-kər How to pronounce sinker (audio)
1
: one that sinks
especially : a weight for sinking a line or net
2
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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