roster

noun

ros·​ter ˈrä-stər How to pronounce roster (audio)
also ˈrȯ-
or ˈrō-
Synonyms of roster
1
a
: a roll or list of personnel
b
: such a list giving the order in which a duty is to be performed
a duty roster
c
: the persons listed on a roster
2
: an itemized list

Synonyms of roster

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Examples of roster in a Sentence

His name has been added to the team roster. The team has a roster of 40 players.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Gauchos have a roster that fluctuates among 24 varsity players, but more and more are showing up to join the team. — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026 And while the Heat do have an open roster spot, the preferred path for any upgrade at this point likely would be on ready-to-go talent, not necessarily a player who may or may not still have it. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 Sep. 2026 Heading into the 2026 season, Glenn seems more genuine, lighthearted and comfortable — a shift that may reflect his growing confidence in the roster the Jets assembled this offseason. — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026 Earning a spot on collegiate rosters, or athletic scholarships, takes years of work from young athletes — and thousands of dollars from their parents in fees, travel and other costs. — Alex Leeds Matthews, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for roster

Word History

Etymology

Dutch rooster, literally, gridiron; from the parallel lines

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of roster was in 1727

Rhymes for roster

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Browse Nearby Words

rostellum
roster
rösti
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Cite this Entry

“Roster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/roster. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

roster

noun
ros·​ter ˈräs-tər How to pronounce roster (audio)
: a list usually of people belonging to some group
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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