Kicker

A 'kicker' is a person or thing that performs an action with their leg and foot, primarily to propel an object, most commonly a ball or a related item, through the air or across a surface. This can occur in various sports such as American football, soccer, and rugby. Figuratively, a 'kicker' can be a person or thing that provides an unexpected or exciting element, often a twist or surprise. In a financial context, it can refer to an additional benefit or term added to a pre-existing agreement. The term also has slang usages, often related to strong personality traits or challenging circumstances.

Kicker meaning with examples

• The kicker for the winning team, with ice in his veins, stepped onto the field and prepared to kick the winning field goal. The stadium held its breath, waiting for the outcome of his perfect kick. He successfully sent the ball soaring through the uprights, securing the victory.
• The soccer player’s powerful kicker sent the ball hurtling towards the goal. The crowd erupted as it landed squarely in the net. His incredible distance kick became the talk of the whole match, and even later the season.
• As a metaphor, the sudden announcement of a rival company’s merger was a kicker in the stock market. Unexpected, it significantly altered the existing power dynamics, causing immediate volatility.
• The contract came with a kicker – a bonus for every milestone the company achieved. This gave the executives the extra incentive to achieve the goals, resulting in overall higher output and profit.
• After the divorce, his stubbornness served as a kicker, as he was unwilling to give up anything that he deemed to be his property. This stubbornness would further fuel the conflicts ahead.