Definition

Noun: 1. A type of pitch in baseball: A fastball is a pitch thrown by a pitcher at high speed, typically the fastest type of pitch, which travels in a generally straight line toward home plate. Its primary characteristic is velocity.

Usage

The word "fastball" is used specifically in the context of baseball to describe the pitch. It is a countable noun. * The pitcher's fastball was clocked at 98 miles per hour. * He has a great fastball but needs to work on his other pitches. * She struck out the batter with a high fastball.

Advanced Usage

• "Four-seam fastball" and "Two-seam fastball": These are specific grips and types of fastballs. A four-seam fastball is known for its maximum velocity and straight trajectory, while a two-seam fastball has slight movement.
  • His four-seam fastball is his best weapon.
• The term can be used metaphorically in other contexts to describe something delivered with great speed or direct force.
  • The reporter fired a fastball of tough questions at the politician.

Variants and Related Words

• Heat (n., slang): A very fast fastball.
  • The closer came in throwing pure heat.
• Smoke (n., slang): Another term for a very high-velocity fastball (as seen in the reference context: "he showed batters nothing but smoke").
• Fastballer (n., rare): A pitcher known for having an excellent fastball.

Synonyms

• Heater (slang)
• Bullet (slang)
• Cheese (slang)

Related Idioms/Phrases

• To throw gas: To pitch a very fast fastball.
  • The young rookie was throwing gas all night.
• To bring the heat: To pitch with high velocity.
  • In the ninth inning, he really brought the heat.

Noun

1. (baseball) a pitch thrown with maximum velocity
   • he swung late on the fastball
   • he showed batters nothing but smoke