pinch-hit

1 of 2

verb

ˈpinch-ˈhit 

ˌpinch-

pinch-hit; pinch-hitting; pinch-hits

intransitive verb

1

: to act or serve in place of another

2

: to bat in the place of another player especially when a hit is particularly needed

pinch hit

2 of 2

noun

: a hit made by a pinch hitter

Synonyms

Verb

• cover
• fill in
• stand in
• step in
• sub
• substitute
• take over

Examples of pinch-hit in a Sentence

Verb

assigned to pinch-hit as a math teacher for the remainder of the semester

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Sanchez was then removed from the game as Schumaker pinch-hit for him in the bottom of the inning. —Andre Fernandez, Miami Herald, 2 May 2024

Roberts puts him in a platoon role and pinch-hits for him but not for Andy Pages or Gavin Lux. —Los Angeles Times, 20 Apr. 2024

Noun

Typically filled with synthetic materials like polyester microfiber, rayon, cotton, or polyester, down alternatives are a good pinch hit. —Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2024

Heim recounts a game last May when the Rangers, down 5-1, rallied for a run in the ninth, had the bases loaded with one out and asked him to pinch hit against Ryan Pressley. —Evan Grant, Dallas News, 14 Apr. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Verb

back-formation from pinch hitter

First Known Use

Verb

1911, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1927, in the meaning defined above