goalpost

noun

goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: one of usually two vertical posts that with or without a crossbar constitute the goal in various games

Examples of goalpost in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Following a 2-1 victory, the Scots invaded the pitch, tore up turf, and broke the goalposts. — Miami Herald, 19 June 2026 Twenty minutes later, Balogun scored again, after shaking off a tackle and sending the ball just inside the goalpost. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 13 June 2026 Even the goal of the Michelin star was kind of underplayed in the end — what seemed like the goalpost became a spiritual McGuffin. — Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 Jam Media / Getty Images At the end of Wednesday’s game, Ochoa walked to his right and planted a kiss on the goalpost. — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for goalpost

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of goalpost was in 1842

Rhymes for goalpost

See All Rhymes for goalpost

Browse Nearby Words

go along with
goalpost
goal set
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Goalpost.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goalpost. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

goalpost

noun
goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: one of two upright posts that serve as the goal in various games
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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