closer

UK: ˈkləʊzə | US: ˈkloʊzər

Definition

  1. n. 1. A person or thing that closes something (e.g., a door or deal).

  2. n. 2. (Baseball) A relief pitcher who specializes in finishing games.

  3. adj. Comparative form of "close" (nearer in space, time, or relationship).

Structure
close <shut/near>er <agent noun suffix/comparative suffix>
Etymology

The word "closer" derives from the verb "close" (Middle English closen, from Old French clore, ultimately from Latin claudere, meaning "to shut"). The suffix "-er" serves two functions:

  1. As an agent noun suffix (e.g., "worker"), forming nouns indicating a person/thing performing an action (e.g., "door closer").
  2. As a comparative suffix (e.g., "faster"), modifying the adjective "close" to indicate nearer proximity.
    The dual role reflects the word's hybrid function in English, blending action (shutting) and state (nearness).
Examples

  1. The librarian is the last closer of the building every night.

  2. The team’s closer secured the victory with three strikeouts.

  3. My apartment is closer to the subway than yours.

  4. She moved her chair closer to the fireplace.

  5. The negotiator acted as the deal’s closer.