goalkeeper
3 synonyms and 0 antonyms for goalkeeper, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The player positioned to stop the opposing team from scoring by guarding the goal.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use goalkeeper
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
A straightforward compound of goal and keeper.
Full origin of goalkeeper →Frequently asked questions
What does “goalkeeper” mean?
The word “goalkeeper” means the player positioned to stop the opposing team from scoring by guarding the goal. In plain terms, the player who defends the goal.
How do you pronounce “goalkeeper”?
“Goalkeeper” is pronounced GAWL-keep (/ˈɡɔːl.kiːpɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “goalkeeper” in a sentence?
Here is “goalkeeper” used in a sentence: “The goalkeeper made a spectacular save in the final seconds.”
What part of speech is “goalkeeper”?
“Goalkeeper” is a noun.
Is “goalkeeper” a common word?
“Goalkeeper” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between a goalkeeper and a goaltender?
Goalkeeper and goaltender refer to the same role, a player positioned to stop the opposing team from scoring by guarding the goal, but the terms are used in different sports. Goalkeeper is standard in soccer, field hockey, and handball, while goaltender is more common in ice hockey, alongside the shortened "goalie" used across many sports.
Is 'goalkeeper' one word or two?
Goalkeeper is standardly written as one word in modern English. It is also commonly shortened informally to "keeper" or "goalie" in casual speech and sports commentary.
What skills distinguish a goalkeeper from other players on a team?
A goalkeeper's defining role is guarding the goal to prevent the opposing team from scoring, which typically involves distinct rules and equipment not available to other players, such as being allowed to handle the ball with their hands within a designated area in soccer. This specialized position sets goalkeepers apart from outfield or field players.