Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈe͡ɪnd͡ʒʌp] (IPA) 
The word "changeup" is generally spelled as one word, and it refers to a type of pitch in baseball that is thrown with the intention of deceiving the batter's timing. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /tʃeɪndʒʌp/. The "ch" sound is like the "j" in "jump," the "eɪ" represents a long "a" sound, and the "dʒ" is like the "j" in "joke." The "ʌ" is pronounced like the "u" in "up".
A changeup is a term predominantly used in baseball to describe a specific type of pitch. It refers to an off-speed pitch thrown by a pitcher with the intention of deceiving the batter. The changeup is designed to look like a fastball, but is actually thrown with less speed and a different grip, causing it to travel slower and with a different trajectory.
This pitch often relies on a combination of arm speed and grip adjustment to create a variation in pitch velocity and movement. The primary goal of a changeup is to disrupt the timing and expectations of the batter. By throwing a pitch slower than their usual fastball, pitchers aim to deceive the batter into swinging early or off balance, leading to a missed swing, weak ground ball, or a pop fly.
The changeup is widely regarded as an effective pitch when executed correctly, as it can create significant deception and force the batter to make poor contact. It is commonly used to keep hitters off-balance, especially against strong fastball hitters. The successful execution of a changeup requires excellent control, as mistiming or poor release can lead to the pitch appearing flat and hittable. Successful pitchers often rely on a changeup as part of their repertoire to complement their faster pitches and keep opposing hitters guessing.
The word "changeup" originates from the sport of baseball, specifically from the terminology used by pitchers and catchers. The term is a compound word consisting of "change" and "up".
The rationale behind the name is that a changeup pitch is designed to deceive the batter by disrupting the expected speed or trajectory of the ball. It is an off-speed pitch thrown with the same arm action as a fastball but with reduced velocity. The change in speed creates an illusion that can confuse the batter and disrupt their timing.
The term "changeup" is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century, although its exact origin is not well-documented. Pitchers started using various methods to alter the speed or movement of their pitches to keep hitters off balance, and the changeup became one of the most effective weapons in a pitcher's arsenal.
