goal

The definition of a goal is something you aspire to do or wish to do or a goal can refer to scoring a point in certain sporting events.

(noun)

An example of goal is making a decision that you want to get out of debt.
An example of goal is when you get the puck into the opposing team's net in hockey.

See goal in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the line or place at which a race, trip, etc. is ended
an object or end that one strives to attain; aim
in certain games,
1. the line, crossbar, or net over or into which the ball or puck must be passed to score
2. the act of so scoring
3. the score made

Origin: ME gol, boundary < ? or akin ? to OE gælan, to hinder, impede

See goal in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The purpose toward which an endeavor is directed; an objective. See Synonyms at intention.
Sports
a. The finish line of a race.
b. A specified structure or zone into or over which players endeavor to advance a ball or puck.
c. The score awarded for such an act.
Linguistics
a. A noun or noun phrase referring to the place to which something moves.
b. See patient.