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.
Holmes, 31, primarily threw a sinker, slider and sweeper last season, increasing the usage of the sweeper compared to prior seasons. Will Sammon, The Athletic, 10 Dec. 2024 Given his ability to create soft contract with his sinker and sweeper, this might not be a bad idea. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 7 Dec. 2024 An array of curveballs, cutters and sinkers complemented the heater to effect, helping Buehler hold the Yankees hitless over the first three innings while the Dodgers surged in front. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2024 Britton unleashed a 97-mph sinker that started at Gardner’s thighs and plunged toward the dirt. Zack Meisel, The Athletic, 29 Aug. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near sinker

Cite this Entry

“Sinker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinker. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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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