ballplayer

American  

[bawl-pley-er] / ˈbɔlˌpleɪ ər /

noun

1. a person who plays ball professionally, especially baseball.

2. anyone who plays ball.

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ballplayer British  

/ ˈbɔːlˌpleɪə /

noun

1. a player, esp in soccer, with outstanding ability to control the ball

2. a baseball player, esp a professional

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Etymology

Origin of ballplayer

First recorded in 1610–20; ball ¹ + player

Example Sentences

Bob was once so popular a ballplayer name that managers had to be careful not to trip over one Bob or another on their way through the clubhouse.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 17, 2025

But Redford, who played baseball at Van Nuys High and was good enough to earn a college scholarship, was convincing as a ballplayer who fashioned his own bat from a tree splintered by lightning.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2025

Locals on the street think he might be a ballplayer or a famous rapper — hip-hop’s global reach only tickles Khalid — but they wind up just liking his company.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2024

“The more I see him every day the more I realize how special of a person and a ballplayer he is.”

From Seattle Times • May 16, 2024

“A great ballplayer always has his best games against the best teams.”

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy