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.
Blackburn worked on refining his sinker and sweeper in the early days of camp. Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 26 Feb. 2025 For one, closer inspection reveals flaws in the sinker and sweeper when Holmes is forced to use them against lefties. Eno Sarris, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025 The Dodger righty threw four different pitches in 2024 - a curve, four-seamer, sinker and slider - and with slight modification of the minimum pitch/batted ball thresholds, each received a pitch grade. Tony Blengino, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025 Ramos initially felt the discomfort when Ramos dodged an inside sinker while facing right-hander Keaton Winn during Winn’s bullpen session. Justice Delos Santos, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 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 5 Mar. 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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