slow-pitch
UK[ˈsləʊ pɪtʃ]US[ˈsloʊ pɪtʃ]
n
A modified version of softball in which the ball is pitched underhand at a slow, high-arcing speed to make it easier to hit.
n
The style of pitching used in this game.
Morpheme Breakdown
slow
pitch
slow
adjective
pitch
noun/verb
Etymology
The compound term "slow-pitch" is a modern American creation, combining two native English words to precisely describe a specific sporting activity. The adjective "slow," with its ancient Germanic roots conveying a lack of speed, directly modifies the action noun "pitch," which evolved from verbs meaning to throw or fix something in place. This literal combination perfectly captures the game's defining characteristic: a deliberately slow, high-arcing throw of the ball, designed to facilitate hitting. The term emerged in the mid-20th century to distinguish this recreational variant from the faster-paced standard softball.
Analysis
Structure: slow (adjective) + pitch (noun/verb)
- slow: From Old English 'slāw' (sluggish, inert), of Germanic origin. Functions as an adjective modifying the noun 'pitch'.
- pitch: From Middle English 'picchen' (to thrust, fix in place), of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old English 'picung' (a pricking). Functions as a noun denoting the act or manner of throwing a ball.
Examples
We're playing slow-pitch in the company league this summer.
The key to a good slow-pitch is a high, arching trajectory.
He joined a recreational slow-pitch softball team after college.