shovel pass

noun

: a short underhand pass (as in football)

Examples of shovel pass 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.
Penn State used him in other ways, too, on shovel passes and on a fake punt. — Sam Khan Jr, New York Times, 15 Apr. 2026 Dawn takes a shovel pass eight yards to the two-yard line, and after a short gain by Burrell, Jackson reaches across the line on a run for a touchdown. — Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 15 Nov. 2025 With the Griffins at the San Clemente 12, tight end Beckham Hofland pulled in a shovel pass in the backfield. — Steve Fryer, Oc Register, 30 Nov. 2025 The drive ended with a Beck shovel pass to Malachi Toney that went 11 yards for the game-winning touchdown in the eventual 10-3 win. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 23 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shovel pass

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shovel pass was in 1940

Rhymes for shovel pass

See All Rhymes for shovel pass

Browse Nearby Words

shovelnose sturgeon
shovel pass
shovel plow
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shovel pass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shovel%20pass. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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