Definition

Noun: An athletic field event in which competitors throw ("put") a heavy spherical object (the "shot") as far as possible from a designated circle.

Usage

The term "shot put" refers to the event itself. It is used as a singular noun. * She won the gold medal in the shot put. * Shot put requires a combination of strength, technique, and explosive power. * The shot put final will be held this afternoon.

Examples

• His best effort in the shot put was over 20 meters.
• Training for the shot put involves specialized weightlifting drills.
• The athlete stepped into the circle to begin his shot put attempt.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a put": This phrase refers to taking an attempt in the event.
  • Each competitor gets three puts in the preliminary round.
• The action performed is "to put the shot." The verb "put" in this context is historically specific to this event and does not mean "to place."
  • He put the shot a new personal best distance.

Variants and Related Words

• Shot putter (n): An athlete who competes in the shot put.
  • The shot putter prepared for her throw.
• Put (n): The act of throwing the shot in competition; an attempt.
  • His final put secured the victory.
• The shot (n): The heavy metal ball used in the event.
  • The weight of the shot differs for men's and women's competitions.

Synonyms

• Throwing event: A general category for athletic events like shot put, discus, and javelin.

Notes on Meaning

The term is a compound noun where "shot" refers to the heavy metal ball and "put" derives from the Old English "potian" meaning "to push" or "to thrust," describing the throwing technique. It is distinct from other throwing events like the discus throw or hammer throw.

Noun

1. an athletic competition in which a heavy metal ball is hurled as far as possible