# goaltender

/ɡˈəʊltɛndɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/goaltender
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the player in a team sport who tries to stop the ball, puck, or other object from entering the goal. You usually see this person wearing special protective gear.

For teachers: the player in a team sport whose primary responsibility is to prevent the opposing team from scoring by blocking shots on goal.

## Examples

- The goaltender blocked the final shot to win the game.
- After the team lost the first two games, the coach decided to replace the goaltender with a younger player.
- A professional goaltender must possess exceptional reflexes and the ability to read the play several seconds before the puck reaches the net.

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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.