seventh-inning stretch

[ sev-uhnth-in-ing, -in- ]

noun

1. Baseball. a point in the game when spectators rise from their seats to relax by stretching their legs, usually after six and one-half innings.
2. any point or period of pause, rest, reconsideration, or the like.

Word History and Origins

Origin of seventh-inning stretch¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Kesluk leads a rousing rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch every game he’s at the bar.

From Los Angeles Times

One inning later, after the seventh-inning stretch, the chaos broke loose as both Profar and Tatis were surrounded by security guards while public address announcer Todd Leitz pleaded for order.

From Los Angeles Times

As the Padres took the field after the seventh-inning stretch, Profar appeared to point out one fan down the left field line to an umpire and stadium security official.

From Los Angeles Times

Youngsters are pulled from the crowd to sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch.

From Los Angeles Times

During the seventh-inning stretch, the scoreboard had another treat for Baltimore fans — the sight of Orioles great Cal Ripken in attendance.

From Seattle Times