# ice hockey

CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ice-hockey
Updated: 2026-08-05

## Definition

a fast game played on ice by two teams of six players. They use sticks to hit a hard, round disc called a puck into the other team's goal while wearing skates.

For teachers: a team sport played on an ice rink in which two teams of skaters use sticks to shoot a vulcanised rubber puck into the opponent's net. Commonly referred to simply as 'hockey' in North America.

## Examples

- My brother plays ice hockey every Saturday morning at the local rink.
- The city built a new arena to support the local ice hockey team and attract more fans.
- The tactical complexity of ice hockey lies in the rapid transitions between offensive and defensive play, often occurring at speeds exceeding thirty kilometres per hour.

## Usage notes

- Used uncountably for the sport itself; specific matches are referred to as 'games' or 'matches'.

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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.