Goaltender

Origin

“goal” + “tend” + “-er”

Full definition of goaltender

Noun

1. (sports) a designated player that attempts to prevent the opposing team from scoring by protecting a goal.

Usage notes

In ice hockey and lacrosse goaltender is the correct term and in most other sports goalkeeper is the correct term. However, the terms are often used interchangeably.

Synonyms

• goalie
• goalkeeper
• keeper
• netkeeper
• netminder