extra inning

American  

[ek-struh in-ing] / ˈɛk strə ˈɪn ɪŋ /

noun

Baseball.

1. an inning played when the score is tied after the regulation nine innings: There is no limit to the number of extra innings in the major leagues, since no game may end in a tie.

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Etymology

Origin of extra inning

First recorded in 1875–80 as extra-inning (adjective)

Example Sentences

“So to push for an extra inning, or call it five extra innings in totality, it’s just not worth it. There’s just way too much downside.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 14, 2025

San Diego became the first team to lose 11 successive extra inning contests since Tampa Bay also dropped 11 in a row in 2015.

From Washington Times • Aug. 30, 2023

Neris came in and dove to his right to snag the bunted pop up, keeping Nick Solak on second to start the extra inning.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 7, 2022

One new wrinkle appalled him: the runner placed on second base to begin each extra inning.

From New York Times • May 23, 2022

"It's only a matter of an extra inning," cried Copley.

From Rival Pitchers of Oakdale by Scott, Morgan