penalty kick

[ pen-l-tee kik ]

noun

, Soccer.

1. a free kick awarded for an infraction committed by a defensive player in the penalty area and taken by the offensive player who has been fouled from a point 12 yards (11 meters) directly in front of the goal. PK

penalty kick

noun

1. soccer a free kick at the goal from a point ( penalty spot ) within the penalty area and 12 yards (about 11 m) from the goal, with only the goalkeeper allowed to defend it: awarded to the attacking team after a foul within the penalty area by a member of the defending team
2. rugby Union a kick awarded after a serious foul that can be aimed straight at the goal to score three points

Word History and Origins

Origin of penalty kick¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

In a mad 90 seconds during the Spain-Paraguay game, the referee awarded a penalty kick to each side.

From The Daily Beast

Were he to be guilty of such want of savoir faire he would inevitably incur some penalty kick or other.

From Project Gutenberg

The inauguration of the penalty kick has made the position more difficult than in the olden days.

From Project Gutenberg

A place kick, a free kick, or a penalty kick must not be taken until the referee has given a signal for the same.

From Project Gutenberg

If necessary, time of play shall be extended to admit of the penalty kick being taken.

From Project Gutenberg