ballplayer
UK: ˈbɔːlpleɪə | US: ˈbɒlpleɪər
n. a person who plays ball games, especially baseball or basketball
The word "ballplayer" is a straightforward compound of "ball" (from Old Norse "bǫllr," meaning a rounded object) and "player" (from Old English "plegian," meaning to engage in a game). It emerged in the 19th century, primarily in American English, to describe athletes in sports like baseball. The term reflects the literal combination of the object (ball) and the action (playing), making it highly intuitive for learners.
He dreamed of becoming a professional ballplayer since childhood.
The team recruited a talented ballplayer from the minor leagues.
She is the only female ballplayer in the local baseball club.
The retired ballplayer now coaches young athletes.
Ballplayers must maintain peak physical condition during the season.