fastball

UK: ˈfɑːstbɔːl | US: ˈfæstˌbɔl

Definition

  1. n. a pitch thrown at high speed in baseball, typically with minimal spin to reduce movement

  2. n. (colloquial) any fast-moving object or action

Structure
fast <swift>ball <spherical object>
Etymology

fastball = fast<swift> + ball<spherical object>

  • fast: From Old English fæst ("firm, fixed"), later evolving to mean "swift" (16th c.) via association with steadfast motion.
  • ball: From Old Norse bǫllr ("round object"), retained in sports terminology for thrown/caught objects.

Etymology Origin:
Coined in baseball slang (late 19th c.), combining "fast" (emphasizing speed) and "ball" (the pitched object). Reflects the sport’s focus on velocity as a tactical weapon.

Examples

  1. The pitcher’s fastball reached 98 mph, striking out the batter.

  2. He practiced his fastball daily to improve accuracy.

  3. A well-placed fastball can dominate a game.

  4. The catcher signaled for a fastball down the middle.

  5. Her fastball was too quick for the opposing team to hit.