bullpen
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A large, temporary holding cell for prisoners: A bullpen is a large, often communal, cell used to confine people who are awaiting legal proceedings, such as a trial or sentencing, or who are being processed, such as refugees or undocumented immigrants.
- A practice area for baseball pitchers: In baseball, a bullpen is a designated area, usually beyond the outfield fence, where relief pitchers warm up and prepare to enter a game.
Usage Examples
Noun (Legal context):
- The arrested protesters were held in a crowded bullpen overnight.
- New arrivals at the detention center were processed in the main bullpen.
Noun (Baseball context):
- The manager signaled to the bullpen for a new pitcher.
- He spent three innings warming up in the bullpen before being called into the game.
Advanced Usage
"To call the bullpen": In baseball, this refers to the act of a manager or coach requesting a relief pitcher to enter the game.
- With the bases loaded, it's time to call the bullpen.
"Bullpen session": A period where a pitcher practices throwing in the bullpen, often to work on mechanics or prepare for a game.
- The starter had a light bullpen session two days before his scheduled start.
Variants and Related Words
Bullpen catcher (n): A specialized catcher who works with pitchers in the bullpen during games.
- The bullpen catcher helped the reliever get ready.
Bullpen cart (n): A small vehicle historically used in some ballparks to transport a pitcher from the bullpen to the mound.
Synonyms
- Lockup, holding cell, tank: For the legal context.
- Warming-up area, relief area: For the baseball context.
Related Phrases
"To be in the bullpen": In baseball, to be available as a relief pitcher.
- Our best closer is in the bullpen if we need him.
"Bullpen by committee": A strategy where no single pitcher is designated as the primary closer; relief duties are shared.
- With their closer injured, the team is using a bullpen by committee approach.
Related Idioms
- "Bullpen mentality": (Informal, from baseball) A mindset of being ready to perform at a moment's notice, often under pressure.
- Working in emergency services requires a real bullpen mentality.
Noun
- a large cell where prisoners (people awaiting trial or sentence or refugees or illegal immigrants) are confined together temporarily
- a place on a baseball field where relief pitchers can warm up during a game