Goalmouth

/ˈɡoʊlmaʊθ/ noun

Definition

The area directly in front of the goal in sports like soccer or hockey; the opening or space where the goal sits.

Etymology

Compound of 'goal' and 'mouth,' using 'mouth' in the sense of an opening or entrance (as in 'river mouth'). This poetic metaphor treats the goal like a hungry opening.

Kelly Says

Goalmouth uses 'mouth' the way we use it in 'river mouth' or 'harbor mouth'—English constantly extends 'mouth' as a metaphor for openings, showing how our bodies become templates for describing the physical world.

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