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.
Then Castro hit Bird’s first-pitch sinker 439 feet and into the forest beyond the center-field wall. Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 19 July 2025 But after Freddie Freeman worked a four-pitch walk, Smith pounded a first-pitch sinker into the dirt. Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 12 July 2025 However, Glasnow responded, jamming Jake Bauers with a sinker for a pop out before blowing Joey Ortiz away with an elevated 96 mph heater. Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025 Tough start for Severino The A’s starting pitcher was off to another rough start at home after surrendering a lead-off walk and a hit-by-pitch on an errant sinker that hit the hands of Heliot Ramos. Sean Campbell july 5, Sacbee.com, 6 July 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 26 Jul. 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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