opposite-field
Meaning
(In baseball and softball) a batted ball hit to the side of the field opposite the batter's natural batting stance (i.e., a right-handed batter hitting to right field, or a left-handed batter hitting to left field).
(Of a hit in baseball or softball) directed to the opposite field.
Structure
Usage
The coach praised the hitter for going with the outside pitch and hitting an opposite-field single.
His opposite-field power has made him a more complete and dangerous batter.
The defensive shift was ineffective because she consistently produced opposite-field contact.
Etymology
The compound "opposite-field" is a modern, sport-specific term born from the literal combination of two ancient words. "Opposite" originates from the Latin opponere, meaning "to set against," a concept rooted in spatial positioning. "Field" descends from the Proto-Germanic felthuz, referring to flat, open land. In baseball terminology, these elements combine with precise logic: "opposite" denotes the directional contrast to the batter's expected pull side, while "field" specifies the defined zone of play. Thus, the term literally describes a ball hit "to the contrary area of play," a tactical concept that has become a standard technical descriptor in the sport.
Analysis
opposite: From Latin oppositus, past participle of opponere (to place against, oppose). In this compound, it functions as an adjective meaning "contrary" or "facing". field: From Old English feld (open land, plain). In this compound, it functions as a noun referring to the defined playing area in a sport.