third base

noun

, Baseball.

1. the third in counterclockwise order of the bases from home plate.
2. the playing position of the fielder covering the area of the infield near this base.

Word History and Origins

Origin of third base¹

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

Smith sent a chopper to shortstop Anthony Volpe in the next at-bat, then watched as Volpe spiked a throw to third base.

From Los Angeles Times

But the Yankees shortstop spiked a throw to third base in an attempt to force the lead runner, an error that loaded the bases with no outs.

From Los Angeles Times

In the eighth inning, the Yankees stole three bases off Honeywell — one of them a steal of third base with a left-handed batter at the plate.

From Los Angeles Times

In the 10th, Treinen gave up a run when Jazz Chisholm Jr. singled, stole second base, stole third base and scored on a force play.

From Los Angeles Times

He went hitless in five at-bats in Game 5 Friday, stranding runners at second and third base in the first inning and leaving the bases loaded in the fourth.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• third