goalpost

American  

[gohl-pohst] / ˈgoʊlˌpoʊst /

Or goal post

noun

1. a post supporting a crossbar and, with it, forming the goal on a playing field in certain sports, as football.

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goalpost British  

/ ˈɡəʊlˌpəʊst /

noun

1. either of two upright posts supporting the crossbar of a goal

2. to change the aims of an activity to ensure the desired results

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Etymology

Origin of goalpost

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

He has a gap in his teeth that feels like "the size of a goalpost".

From BBC

Near a soccer match where the players brought in their own goalposts because the city can’t provide any.

From Los Angeles Times

The financial goalposts are shifting as companies prepare to take on increasing amounts of debt.

From MarketWatch

"My worry now, as I'm approaching later life, is when can I actually afford to retire? Because the goalpost seems to move," he says.

From BBC

The 99-year-old polo field, where Rogers played with friends including Walt Disney and Clark Gable, is still green and largely unscathed, though the announcer’s booth and goalposts burned.

From Los Angeles Times