switch-hitter

noun

switch-hit·​ter ˈswich-ˈhi-tər How to pronounce switch-hitter (audio)
1
: a baseball player who switch-hits
2
slang : bisexual
3
: one that is flexible or adaptable
especially : a person who can work equally well in either of two jobs or capacities

Examples of switch-hitter 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.
Old friend Willi Castro, a switch-hitter and another in-division name, would be a strong fit. Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 25 July 2025 The switch-hitter left with a career batting average of .290 over three seasons. Emma Moon, Charlotte Observer, 21 July 2025 Raleigh is also on track to break Salvador Perez’s record for home runs by a primary catcher (48) and Mickey Mantle’s high mark for homers by a switch-hitter (54). Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 17 July 2025 The switch-hitter has not been able to hit from the right side, and his lack of mobility has been costly in the field – one of his two errors led to four unearned runs in Sunday’s 5-1 loss to Arizona. Mike Digiovanna, Oc Register, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for switch-hitter

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of switch-hitter was in 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Switch-hitter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/switch-hitter. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

switch-hitter

noun
switch-hit·​ter
-ˌhit-ər
: a baseball player who can bat either left-handed or right-handed
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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