penalty area

American  

noun

Soccer.

1. the area, 44 yards (40 meters) wide and 18 yards (16 meters) deep, centered on the goal line and extending in front of the goal, where a foul by a defensive player results in a penalty kick for the offensive team.

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penalty area British  

noun

1. soccer a rectangular area in front of the goal, within which the goalkeeper may handle the ball and within which a penalty is awarded for a foul by the defending team

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Etymology

Origin of penalty area

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Forward Julián Quiñones extended the lead in the 61st minute, exploiting Czechia’s defensive confusion in the penalty area.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 25, 2026

England captain Harry Kane was so well marshalled that he only had two touches in the Ghana penalty area in the first half, although he blazed a late chance over the top.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2026

He scored in the 38th minute from the edge of the penalty area after a teammate cleverly let the ball run through his legs to reach him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 22, 2026

Turkey dominated its opener, outshooting Australia 30-9, taking 51 touches in the penalty area and completing 90% of its 635 passes.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2026

Gino can drive the ball harder than anyone I have ever seen, on a straight line, from outside the penalty area.

From "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor