field goal

noun

1. Football. a three-point goal made by place-kicking or drop-kicking the ball between the opponent's goalposts above the crossbar.
2. Basketball. a goal made while the ball is in play.

field goal

noun

1. basketball a goal scored while the ball is in normal play rather than from a free throw
2. American football a score of three points made by kicking the ball through the opponent's goalposts above the crossbar

Word History and Origins

Origin of field goal¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Yet they remained firm against the Bengals’ dangerous offense, holding Cincinnati to five of 17 on third down tries and forcing field goals on two first-half red zone drives that helped tilt the game early.

From Los Angeles Times

He kicked the game-winning field goal Saturday with no time left.

From Los Angeles Times

Kicker Chris Boswell booted six field goals to score all 18 points for Pittsburgh, who have now won eight of the past nine against their big division rivals.

From BBC

With the Chargers already on the edge of comfortable field goal position for Cameron Dicker, the Bengals prepared for a conservative running play.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet like the Chiefs, they also found a way, coming back from 16 points down to win with a field goal as time expired.

From BBC

Related Words

• basket