field goal

noun

1. Football.,  a three-point goal made by place-kicking or drop-kicking the ball between the opponent's goalposts above the crossbar.

2. Basketball.,  a goal made while the ball is in play.

field goal

noun

1. basketball a goal scored while the ball is in normal play rather than from a free throw

2. American football a score of three points made by kicking the ball through the opponent's goalposts above the crossbar

Word History and Origins

Origin of field goal¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

It was the fifth field goal of the day for Dicker, who has never missed from 40 yards or closer.

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In week three against the Rams, they blocked a game-winning field goal attempt and returned it for a score.

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The opening drive appeared to end with a 29-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker, but the Chargers got new life with an offsides call on Washington.

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The problem is that their eight trips have produced five field goals and only three touchdowns.

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The Rams trailed 17-7 at halftime after Jones tossed two touchdown passes and Eddy Pineiro kicked a field goal as time expired in the second quarter.

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Related Words

• basket