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.
His sinker has been key this year, with opponents batting just .229 against it compared to .334 last year. Jim Bowden, New York Times, 21 May 2025 After fouling off a bunt attempt on a 1-0 splitter from José Soriano, Maldonado sent a 96 mph sinker rolling slowly onto the grass on the left side of the infield. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 May 2025 Beau Brieske couldn’t believe his eyes when Campbell turned his first pitch, a 97.3 mph sinker, into a towering fly ball that traveled 363 feet, just far enough to be a go-ahead two-run homer. Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 13 May 2025 Once again, Stroman left an 89.4-mph sinker over the middle. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 12 Apr. 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 27 May. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!