Definition of the word slugger

The word "slugger" originated in the late 19th century and was first used to describe powerful batters in the game of baseball. The term slugger derives from the term "slug," which was already in use in baseball slang at the time. Slugging refers to hitting the ball forcefully, often resulting in long home runs. The term slugger was coined as a way to highlight the fact that these hitters were slugging the ball exceptionally far and hard, earning them a prominent place in the game. The first recorded use of the term slugger was in 1889, when it was used to describe popular baseball player Hughie Jennings, known for his impressive home run hitting abilities. The word slugger has since become an embedded term in baseball culture, and is used to describe both current and former baseball players who are particularly skilled at hitting home runs and driving in runs. Its popularity and significance has also spread beyond baseball, with the term being used more broadly to describe individuals who exhibit exceptional power or force in their respective fields, such as political candidates who are said to be "sluggers" during campaign seasons.