goalpost

noun

goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: one of usually two vertical posts that with or without a crossbar constitute the goal in various games

Examples of goalpost in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This might feel like a pretty significant milestone for you, one whose arrival is made possible because the rules temporarily changed, because the goalposts shifted, or because the obstacles in your way finally eased up. — Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 2026 The 21-year-old grows more confident when starting on the left wing, stinging the outside of Rosenborg’s goalpost wth a solid effort in the 28th minute. — Carl Anka, New York Times, 25 July 2026 This isn’t the only factor shifting back our aging goalposts. — Julie Beck, The Atlantic, 25 July 2026 The French superstar winced after a free kick sailed over the goalpost in the 88th minute. — Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for goalpost

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of goalpost was in 1842

Rhymes for goalpost

See All Rhymes for goalpost

Browse Nearby Words

go along with
goalpost
goal set
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Goalpost.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/goalpost. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

goalpost

noun
goal·​post ˈgōl-ˌpōst How to pronounce goalpost (audio)
: one of two upright posts that serve as the goal in various games
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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