The spelling of the word "dodger" is fairly straightforward. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "o" sound, as in "dog" (IPA: /ˈdɒdʒər/). The second syllable is pronounced with a soft "g" sound, as in "jazz" (IPA: /-dʒər/). In terms of etymology, the word likely originates from the verb "dodge," meaning to avoid or evade something, and was later applied to various objects and people who engage in dodging activities. Overall, the spelling and pronunciation of "dodger" should pose no major difficulties for English speakers or language learners.
A dodger is an informal term that can have multiple meanings depending on the context. Primarily, a dodger refers to a person who avoids or evades something, often by employing cunning or deceptive strategies. This could pertain to someone who skillfully evades or sidesteps a difficult or dangerous situation, either physically or metaphorically, using elusive techniques. In this sense, a dodger is often seen as sly or crafty in their abilities to elude capture, punishment, or negative outcomes.
Furthermore, the term can be used to describe a person who deliberately avoids paying debts or fulfilling obligations, particularly in a devious manner. This definition encompasses individuals who evade financial responsibilities, bills, or taxes through dishonest means, like deliberately concealing income or assets. In these cases, a dodger is often seen as deceitful and unethical.
Moreover, a dodger is occasionally associated with sports, specifically baseball, as it refers to a player on the defending team who attempts to avoid being tagged out by the opposing team while running between bases. In this context, a dodger demonstrates agility, quick thinking, and swift movements to elude the defenders.
Overall, whether employed in the realms of evasion, deception, or sports, the term dodger usually conveys a sense of cunning, nimbleness, or evasiveness, depending on the context in which it is used.
One who dodges or evades.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "dodger" originated in the 16th century as a noun derived from the verb "dodge". The verb "dodge" itself has uncertain origins, but it is believed to have been influenced by earlier words such as "dog", "dig", and "dike" which carried the sense of evading or sidestepping. It is likely that "dodge" emerged from a combination of these influences, ultimately meaning to avoid or elude something or someone. The noun "dodger" refers to someone who dodges or evades, and later came to be associated with cunning or deceitful behavior. In the early 19th century, "dodger" was adopted as a name for various objects or people that were tricky or elusive, and eventually became associated with the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team (now the Los Angeles Dodgers) in the 20th century.