This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
squeeze play
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun
Baseball.
- Also called suicide squeeze, suicide squeeze play. a play executed when there is a runner on third base and usually not more than one out, in which the runner starts for home as soon as the pitcher makes a motion to pitch, and the batter bunts.
- Also called safety squeeze, safety squeeze play. a similar play in which the runner on third base waits until the batter has successfully bunted before trying to score.
the application of pressure or influence on a person or group in order to force compliance or gain an advantage.
QUIZ
CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?
There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?
Question 1 of 7
Which sentence is correct?
Also called squeeze.
Origin of squeeze play
An Americanism dating back to 1900–05
Words nearby squeeze play
squeeze, squeeze bottle, squeezebox, squeezed joint, squeeze off, squeeze play, squeeze through, squeezy, squeg, squelch, squeteague
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use squeeze play in a sentence
Fearing an attempted squeeze play, Eliot signaled for Rod to keep the ball high and close on Cline.
Rival Pitchers of Oakdale|Morgan ScottThe squeeze play, the delayed steal, the sacrifice hit are all modern inventions.
Baseball Joe on the Giants|Lester Chadwick
Other Idioms and Phrases with squeeze play
squeeze play
A situation in which pressure exerted to obtain a concession or achieve a goal, as in Workers sometimes feel caught in a squeeze play between union and management. This expression, dating from about 1900, originated in baseball, where it refers to a prearranged play in which the runner on third base breaks for home plate on the pitch, and the batter bunts. [c. 1915]
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.