pick off

Definition of pick offnext
as in to intercept
to stop, seize, or interrupt while in progress or on course picked off more passes than any other player in the division

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of pick off Republicans could also try to pick off one or more of the four Democrats who represent parts of the Atlanta area, but spreading out too many Democrats could make more Republican districts competitive. Jack Brook, Twin Cities, 13 May 2026 In López’s city of Tocoa, environmental defenders fighting the mining project have been getting picked off for years and eight activists were imprisoned for more than two years in what lawyers said was retaliation for their work. Marlon González, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026 Davis gave up the first run of the game, a 412-foot solo home run by Cameron Gurney in the top of the fourth inning, that was followed by a double that could have started a crooked inning for the Utes, but Davis picked off the runner at second base. Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 May 2026 Aphids may be annoying, but beneficial insects will fly in to feed on them, then stick around to pick off other bugs. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for pick off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pick off
Verb
  • Iranian missiles, a response to Israeli and American attacks, were being intercepted overhead.
    Clayton Dalton, New Yorker, 15 May 2026
  • In Stephens County, Georgia, authorities conducted checkpoints and aggressive patrols on remote roads surrounding forest service lands in an effort to intercept fugitives, drug traffickers and individuals living in the country illegally.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Denise ascended the stairs, yelling at Djena all the way up, then grabbed Djena by the collar and began hitting her.
    Yudhijit Bhattacharjee, New Yorker, 18 May 2026
  • To make one, grab a clean, thick sock (preferably a larger one) and fill it with uncooked rice, oats, or flaxseed.
    Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 18 May 2026
Verb
  • The affidavit states that Dunmars parked in front of Hayes’ vehicle, partially blocking her path, before a physical fight allegedly broke out involving Dunmars’ daughter and two of Hayes’ daughters.
    Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026
  • The big guy in the doorway stretched out his arms, his hands gripping both sides of the knotty pine planks on either side of the door frame, his body filling the space, blocking our way out.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pick off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pick%20off. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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