goalpost

or goal post

[ gohl-pohst ]

noun

1. a post supporting a crossbar and, with it, forming the goal on a playing field in certain sports, as football.

goalpost

/ ˈɡəʊlˌpəʊst /

noun

1. either of two upright posts supporting the crossbar of a goal
2. move the goalposts
   to change the aims of an activity to ensure the desired results

Word History and Origins

Origin of goalpost¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

The California State University system plans to shift the endgame for student success, boosting efforts to help students get not only a four-year degree but also a good job in a reset of years of focus on graduation rates as the ultimate goalpost.

From Los Angeles Times

But CSU — often called “the People’s University” — is poised for a major reset as it changes its ultimate goalpost from a four-year degree to a good job.

From Los Angeles Times

As "Cobra Kai" embarks on its sixth and final season — words which leave me simultaneously relieved and stunned that it lasted this long – we might view this goalpost differently without judging Hurwitz, Heald and Schlossberg too harshly.

From Salon

About 1:15 later, Schneider got a breakaway and fired a shot past Bobrovsky that hit off the goalpost.

From Seattle Times

It was still a one-goal game in the second period when Matthews, who led the NHL with 69 goals this season, caught Swayman away from the crease but banged the puck off the goalpost.

From Seattle Times