libero
n.— «The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has decided to reduce the pressure of balls for the men’s game by a quarter to give defences a better chance. The libero system—where a designated player can be sent in and out of court by coaches for backcourt play—will be tested at the Grand Prix series this year.» —“Volleyball is to bring in softer balls” AFP July 18, 1996. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Astronauts returning from space say they experience what’s called the overview effect, a new understanding of the fragility of our planet and our need to reflect on what humans all share as a species. A book about the end of the universe...
In the 15th century, the word respair meant “to have hope again.” Although this word fell out of use, it’s among dozens collected in a new book of soothing vocabulary for troubled times. Plus, baseball slang: If a batter...