The word "pitcher" is spelled with seven letters but only four sounds. In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), its transcription is /ˈpɪtʃər/. The first sound is /p/, followed by the short vowel sound /ɪ/ and the voiceless alveolar fricative /tʃ/. The final two sounds are also the same as the first two sounds, with the short vowel sound /ə/ and the voiceless alveolar fricative /r/. Despite having an irregular spelling with various other English words pronounced the same, the spelling of "pitcher" remains unchanged.
A pitcher is a noun that primarily refers to a container, in the shape of a jug or vessel, designed for holding and pouring liquids. Typically made from ceramic, glass, or plastic, a pitcher usually has a handle for easy grip and a spout for controlled pouring. Its purpose is to facilitate the serving of liquids, especially beverages like water, juice, or iced tea, by allowing the contents to be poured in a steady stream without splashing or spilling.
In addition to its functionality, pitchers often serve aesthetic purposes and are commonly used as decorative items in households. They may feature intricate patterns, engravings, or colorful designs that enhance their visual appeal. Pitchers can also be found in various sizes, ranging from small ones used for individual servings to large ones utilized for group settings or special occasions.
Apart from its practical meaning, the term "pitcher" is also commonly associated with sports, particularly baseball. In this context, a pitcher is an athlete responsible for throwing the ball towards the opposing team's batter with the intention of striking them out. Pitchers play a crucial role in the game, employing various techniques and pitches, such as fastballs, curveballs, or change-ups, to challenge the batter and prevent them from successfully hitting the ball.
• He or that which pitches or tosses.
• An earthenware or tin vessel for holding water.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "pitcher" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the Old English word "piccere" or "picere", which meant "one who pitches", referring to someone who throws or pours a liquid. This term was derived from the Old English verb "pician", meaning "to pitch" or "to throw". The noun form "picere" eventually evolved into "pitcher" in Middle English, keeping the same meaning of a vessel used to pour or hold liquid. The word shares its roots with the Old English verb "pic" or "pyccean", meaning "to thrust" or "to stick", possibly indicating the action of pouring or throwing with force. The term "pitcher" has been used to refer to different types of vessels throughout history, including containers with handles and spouts, jugs, and other types of pitchers used in various cultures.