gridiron

[ grid-ahy-ern ]

noun

1. a football field.
2. a utensil consisting of parallel metal bars on which to broil meat or other food.
3. any framework or network resembling a gridiron.
4. a structure above the stage of a theater, from which hung scenery and the like are manipulated.

verb (used with object)

1. to mark off into squares or design with a network of squares.

gridiron

/ ˈɡrɪdˌaɪən /

noun

1. a utensil of parallel metal bars, used to grill meat, fish, etc
2. any framework resembling this utensil
3. a framework above the stage in a theatre from which suspended scenery, lights, etc, are manipulated
4. 1. the field of play in American football
   2. an informal name for American football
   3. ( as modifier )

      a gridiron hero

Word History and Origins

Origin of gridiron¹

1250–1300; Middle English gridirne, gridir ( e ), gridere, variant of gridel griddle; variants in -irne, -ire, etc. are associated by folk etymology with ModE variant irne, ire iron

Word History and Origins

Origin of gridiron¹

C13 gredire, perhaps variant (through influence of ire iron ) of gredile griddle

Example Sentences

Observers across the political spectrum say we’re in a “crisis of men,” and the opposing presidential campaigns are competing for masculinity on the gridiron.

From Salon

There’s also a little behind-the-scenes irony in the gridiron scenes.

From Los Angeles Times

The gridiron was another precious sanctuary; Shy played defensive end on the Compton High football team.

From Los Angeles Times

The US is large enough and populous enough to sustain an internalised culture, at least in terms of its most beloved sports of basketball, baseball and gridiron.

From BBC

But Clark found his calling on the gridiron.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• course
• court
• golf course
• green
• park
• range
• stadium
• terrain
• track
• turf