goalkeeper
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goalkeeper
A player in a team sport such as soccer, handball, or ice hockey whose main task is to defend their own goal and prevent the opposing team from scoring a goal.
Der Torhüter parierte den Elfmeter mit einer spektakulären Parade.
The goalkeeper saved the penalty with a spectacular save.
The word is made up of 'das Tor' (the goal) and the verb 'hüten' (to guard). A 'Torhüter' (goalkeeper) is therefore literally a person who 'hütet' (guards) the goal, meaning watches over and protects it.
Der Hirte hütet seine Schafe auf der Weide.
The shepherd watches over his sheep in the pasture.
In a sports context, 'der Torhüter' (the goalkeeper) is often combined with certain verbs that describe his actions. These include 'halten' (to save/hold) a ball, 'parieren' (to save) a shot, or 'verhindern' (to prevent) a goal against the team.
Der Torhüter konnte den harten Schuss nicht halten.
The goalkeeper couldn't save the powerful shot.
The word 'Torhüter' (goalkeeper) is the official term and the one used in most contexts. You find it in sports reports, official rules, and formal language.
Die Mannschaft sucht einen neuen Torhüter für die nächste Saison.
The team is looking for a new goalkeeper for next season.
goalkeeper
Torwart and Torhüter refer to the same player who defends their own goal. There is no difference in meaning between their roles here; which word is chosen depends mainly on usual regional or personal usage.
Der Torhüter hielt den entscheidenden Schuss kurz vor dem Abpfiff.
The goalkeeper saved the decisive shot just before the final whistle.
Der Torwart hielt den entscheidenden Schuss kurz vor dem Abpfiff.
The goalkeeper saved the decisive shot just before the final whistle.
