between the pipes: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "between the pipes" has a specific meaning in the realm of ice hockey. It refers to the position of a goaltender, who stands in front of the net and defends the goal. The net itself is often depicted as being enclosed by two pipes, giving rise to the origin of the idiom.

This idiom primarily originated in North America, particularly in Canada where ice hockey is highly popular. People commonly use it in hockey commentary, discussions, and literature. "Between the pipes" has spread beyond the confines of hockey and can occasionally be found in general conversations, although this is much less common.

The idiom is often used to highlight the specific role or actions of a goaltender. It signifies their position as the last line of defense against opposing players attempting to score a goal. The goaltender's positioning between the pipes visually represents their responsibility to prevent the puck from passing through the net and into the goal.

Furthermore, "between the pipes" can also represent the pressure and intensity of the goaltender's role. It symbolizes the confined space in which they must operate, often facing a barrage of shots from opposing players. The idiom encapsulates the challenges and demands of the position, emphasizing the importance of the goaltender's skills and agility in effectively blocking shots and defending the goal.

Additionally, the idiom can be related to other idioms that use the word "between." These idioms include "between a rock and a hard place," "between the hammer and the anvil," "between the jigs and the reels," "keep it between the ditches," and "betwixt and between." Each of these idioms conveys a different meaning, but they all share the concept of being in a difficult or challenging situation.

"Between a rock and a hard place" refers to being caught between two equally undesirable options or choices. It implies being in a situation where there are no good outcomes, similar to the pressure faced by a goaltender trying to defend the net.

"Between the hammer and the anvil" conveys a similar sentiment, suggesting being caught in a situation where one faces pressure, stress, or danger from different angles. This can relate to the goaltender's experience of defending the goal amid constant attacks from opposing players.

"Between the jigs and the reels" is an Irish idiom that means being confused or undecided. This can be related to a goaltender's need to quickly assess the game situation and make split-second decisions about how to defend the goal.

"Keep it between the ditches" is a phrase often used in the context of driving, reminding people to stay on the road and avoid dangerous situations. This can be compared to a goaltender's need to stay positioned between the pipes and prevent the puck from entering the goal.

"Betwixt and between" is an older idiom that means being undecided or uncertain. This can relate to the goaltender's need to read the game and make quick decisions about how to defend the goal, often having to react to unexpected situations.

Overall, the idiom "between the pipes" is intrinsically linked to ice hockey and the role of the goaltender. It conveys the significance of the goaltender's position and responsibilities in defending the goal. While primarily used within the context of hockey, the idiom also serves as a metaphor for facing intense pressure and challenges in any given situation.