■ noun
1》 Cricket each of the sets of three stumps with two bails across the top at either end of the pitch, defended by a batsman.
↘the prepared strip of ground between these two sets of stumps.
↘the dismissal of a batsman.
2》 a small door or gate, especially one beside or in a larger one.
↘ N. Amer. an opening in a wall or screen through which customers are served.
3》 N. Amer. a croquet hoop.
Phrases
at the ~ Cricket
1》 batting.
2》 by the ~keeper.
a sticky ~
1》 Cricket a pitch that has been drying after rain and is difficult to bat on.
2》 informal a tricky or awkward situation.
Origin
ME: from Anglo-Norman Fr. and Old North. Fr. wiket ; origin uncertain, usu. referred to the Gmc root of ON vīkja 'to turn, move'.