WICKET Meaning and
Definition
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A wicket is a term most commonly used in the sport of cricket, where it refers to a small set of wooden stumps that are positioned in the ground. It consists of three vertical stumps, which are equally spaced apart, and are mounted by two small wooden horizontal pieces known as bails. The wicket is placed at both ends of the pitch, which is the rectangular area in the center of the field.
In cricket, the primary objective of the bowler is to dismiss the batsman by hitting the wicket. This can be achieved by either striking the stumps directly, and causing the bails to dislodge from their position, or by finding other creative ways to remove the bails from the stumps, such as through the use of a run-out or a catch.
The term "wicket" is also used to describe the rectangular area behind the stumps, where the bowler delivers the ball. This area is commonly known as the "bowler's end" or the "wicket end," as it denotes the completion of one half of an over.
Outside the sport of cricket, the term "wicket" can also have alternative meanings. For instance, in old English, it was used to describe a small door or gate within a larger structure. Additionally, in the game of croquet, a wicket refers to a small upright hoop that players must hit their ball through in order to score points.
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A small gate or door; part of a massive or large door for the admission of persons on foot only; the narrow frame of rods stuck in the ground at the game of cricket, which is constantly being bowled over and set up again.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WICKET
Etymology of WICKET
The word "wicket" has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "wicet" or "wiket". The Old English word was in turn borrowed from the Old Norse word "víkja", meaning "to move aside" or "to turn aside". Over time, the meaning of "wicket" evolved to refer to a small door or gate that can be opened or closed. In the context of cricket, a "wicket" originally referred to a small gate-like structure through which the ball was bowled. Eventually, the word "wicket" came to specifically denote the set of three stumps and two bails that form the target for the bowler in cricket.
Idioms with the word WICKET
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be (batting) on a losing wicket
The idiom "be (batting) on a losing wicket" means to be in a situation where success is highly unlikely or almost impossible. It originates from the game of cricket, where a "wicket" refers to the rectangular strip of ground on which the game is played. If a batsman is said to be "batting on a losing wicket," it implies that they are playing in difficult circumstances and are unlikely to achieve victory. This idiom is often used figuratively to describe any situation where the odds are stacked against someone.
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leg before wicket
The idiom "leg before wicket" (LBW) is a cricketing term that refers to a situation where a batsman's leg obstructs the path of the ball, preventing it from hitting the wicket, resulting in the batsman being dismissed by the umpire. In a broader sense, the idiom is used to describe a situation where someone's actions or decisions unintentionally hinder their progress or outcome.
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on a sticky wicket
The idiom "on a sticky wicket" refers to being in a challenging or difficult situation, often with no easy or straightforward solution. It originates from the sport of cricket, where a 'sticky wicket' refers to a pitch that is wet, making it difficult for the batsman to play shots effectively. Thus, being "on a sticky wicket" implies facing obstacles or complications that hinder progress or success.
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batting on a sticky wicket
The idiom "batting on a sticky wicket" means to be in a difficult or challenging situation, often referring to a circumstance where progress or success is hindered by external factors or unfavorable conditions. The term originated from the sport of cricket, where a sticky wicket refers to a pitch that is wet or damp, making it difficult for the batsman to play shots and score runs. Therefore, if someone is said to be batting on a sticky wicket, it implies that they are facing a tough and unpredictable environment, where their endeavors are likely to encounter complications or obstacles.
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a sticky wicket
The idiom "a sticky wicket" refers to a difficult or tricky situation or problem that is challenging to resolve or navigate. It is often used to describe a complex or delicate predicament with no easy solution. The term originated from the game of cricket, where a "sticky wicket" refers to a pitch that is wet or damp, making it difficult for the batsman to hit the ball and causing unpredictable behavior.
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be (batting) on a sticky wicket
The idiom "be (batting) on a sticky wicket" means to be in a difficult or precarious situation. It originates from the sport of cricket, specifically when the wicket becomes sticky due to dampness from rain or humidity. This makes it difficult for the batsman to play the ball, which puts them at a disadvantage and increases their risk of getting out. Similarly, in everyday language, being on a sticky wicket implies facing challenging circumstances or being in a tight spot where success is uncertain.
Similar spelling words for WICKET
