# dust off a batter

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/dust-off-a-batter
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

for a pitcher to throw a pitch at or near the batter, typically to frighten the batter or to have him stand farther away from home plate.

## Examples

- The pitcher decided to dust off the batter to show his frustration.
- After the batter hit a home run, the pitcher threw inside to dust off the batter and send a clear message.
- Tensions escalated on the field when the pitcher, clearly agitated by the previous inning, intentionally threw a high fastball to dust off the batter.

## Origin

The expression originates from the game of baseball, describing a pitch delivered in such close proximity to the batter that it appears to remove dust or dirt from his uniform. This effect is achieved either through the physical friction of the ball brushing against the fabric or by the displacement of air as the ball passes. An alternative derivation suggests the term refers to the batter’s own sudden movement. In this version, the batter is forced to leap or dive away from the path of the ball to avoid being struck, thereby disturbing the dust on his uniform as a consequence of his retreat.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.