utility man

American  

noun

1. a worker expected to serve in any capacity when called on.

2. an actor of miscellaneous small parts.

3. Baseball. a player who is not a regular and whose value lies in an ability to play several positions.

---

utility man British  

noun

1. a worker who is expected to serve in any of several capacities

2. an actor who plays any of numerous small parts

---

Etymology

Origin of utility man

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Moore, the Mariners’ Gold Glove utility man, who has played every position but catcher, uses four: two infield gloves, a first baseman’s mitt and another for the outfield.

From Los Angeles Times

“I really don’t think you can take anything from last year and expect it to carry over to the start of the season,” veteran utility man Chris Taylor said.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead of being locked into an everyday spot in center, there might be more infield opportunities for the smooth-fielding utility man, who served as the Dodgers’ primary shortstop in last year’s World Series run.

From Los Angeles Times

The Saints’ utility man plays tight end, receiver, running back and quarterback — and he’s coming off a career-best performance.

From Los Angeles Times

The rare miscue from the sure-handed utility man did not cost the Dodgers, as the next batter, Jazz Chisholm Jr., grounded out to end the inning, and Edman’s evening got progressively better from there.

From Los Angeles Times