reliever

noun

re·​liev·​er ri-ˈlē-vər How to pronounce reliever (audio)
Synonyms of relievernext
: one that relieves
especially : relief pitcher

Examples of reliever in a Sentence

pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen Exercise is a good stress reliever.
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.
In the fourth, Burleson sent an 0-1 sinker 15 feet further into the right-field seats off reliever Tim Hill. — ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026 The Cubs bolstered their pitching staff with a series of moves ahead of Monday’s trade deadline, acquiring Clay Holmes from the New York Mets and reliever Ryan Zeferjahn from the Los Angeles Angels. — Jay Cohen, Chicago Tribune, 4 Aug. 2026 Per reports, the second-place Phillies traded for three-time batting champ Luis Arraez and a reliever Monday. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 3 Aug. 2026 Some thought the pitching-needy Padres (58-54 entering Monday) might sell some of their top relievers — including flamethrowing closer Mason Miller — but a recent hot streak turned San Diego into buyers. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reliever

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reliever was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing reliever

Rhymes for reliever

See All Rhymes for reliever

Browse Nearby Words

relieve oneself
reliever
relieving arch
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reliever.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reliever. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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