A2noun2K

Hockey

UK /["/ˈhɒki/"]/US /["/ˈhɑːki/"]/

Definition

a game played on a field by two teams of 11 players, with curved sticks and a small hard ball. Teams try to hit the ball into the other team’s goal.

In simple words: A game played on ice or a field where two teams use sticks to hit a puck or ball.

Examples

  • to **play hockey**
  • a **hockey stick/pitch/player/team**
  • He plays in the college hockey team.
  • the Olympic hockey squad
  • I've started playing hockey with a local club.
  • She **plays hockey** in the winter.
  • a **hockey stick/puck/rink/player/team**
  • Every Saturday night people would sit in front of their television sets watching hockey.

Usage notes

Used in sports contexts, 'hockey' can refer specifically to ice hockey or field hockey. In informal settings, people might use this term while discussing sports or leisure activities. Avoid using in highly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine a 'Hockey Stick' reaching for a goal on a frozen lake.

Collocations

  • field
  • ice
  • air
  • play
  • watch
  • ball
  • mask
  • pads
  • field
  • ice
  • air
  • play
  • watch
  • ball
  • mask
  • pads

Synonyms

  • ice hockey
  • field hockey
  • puck sport

Antonyms

  • soccer
  • basketball
  • baseball

Common mistakes

  • Confusing field hockey with ice hockey.
  • Using 'hockey' without considering the type when discussing specific games.
  • Incorrectly spelling it as 'hocky'.