off-speed

adjective

ˈȯf-ˈspēd How to pronounce off-speed (audio)
: being slower than usual or expected
throwing off-speed pitches

Examples of off-speed 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.
When needed, Luzardo was also able to pull out his four-seam fastball or off-speed changeup. — Kansas City Star, 5 July 2026 The Red Devils didn’t do much with Umbright’s off-speed pitches, either. — Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026 Tracy said the Red Sox want Bello to continue attacking with his off-speed stuff. — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 1 July 2026 Cole took advantage of the Rays’ aggressiveness, ramping up his off-speed usage the second time through the order. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-speed

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of off-speed was in 1951

Rhymes for off-speed

See All Rhymes for off-speed

Browse Nearby Words

off soundings
off-speed
offspin
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Off-speed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/off-speed. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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