noun
squib
A kick or hit that sends a ball only a short distance or off course.
His squib rolls toward third base and stops in the grass.
Etymology
The sporting term compares a weak or irregularly traveling ball with a small, sputtering explosive. It emphasizes a short, low, or unpredictable result.
More examples
- A squib on the kickoff keeps the ball away from their fastest returner.
- Her squib off the tee lands just a few yards away.
- The catcher races forward to field a squib.
Forms
squib · squibs
Similar words
- dribbler
- Usually a slow ground ball, not a weak kick.
- mishit
- Emphasizes poor contact rather than the ball's short travel.