General
worm burner
What does worm burner mean?
A sharply hit ground ball that skims along the surface so fast it looks like it could scorch the grass.
"He topped it, sending a worm burner down the third-base line."
Origin
Originally golf slang for a low shot; entered baseball usage by 1972.
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'worm burner' in baseball?
A worm burner is a hard, fast ground ball that skims along the surface so quickly it looks like it could scorch the grass.
Where does the term 'worm burner' come from?
It started as golf slang for a low shot that stays near the ground, and entered baseball usage by 1972.
Is a worm burner used in other sports?
Yes — it originated in golf and is also used in soccer for a low, fast ground shot, in addition to baseball.
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