WordGarden.iobasketball
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɑːskɪtbˌɔːl/
US
- /ˈbæskətˌbɔl/
Meanings
Noun
the sport played by two teams trying to score by shooting a ball through a hoop
the large inflated ball used in the sport of basketball
Beyond the definition
Basketball isn't just a bouncy orange sphere and two metal hoops; it's a fast-paced team sport played by dribbling and shooting the ball through those hoops to score points. Think of soaring jumps, strategic teamwork, and the satisfying swish as the ball goes through the net! But "basketball" can also refer to the actual ball itself—that familiar textured sphere you see players bouncing. It's a game loved around the world, from neighborhood courts to professional arenas like the NBA.
Basketball is a globally popular team sport played between two teams of five players on a rectangular court. The objective? To score points by shooting a basketball through a hoop elevated at each end of the court. Players advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing it while running) and passing it to teammates. It's a game demanding agility, coordination, strategy, and teamwork.
However, "basketball" isn't limited to just the game itself. The term also refers to the spherical, inflated ball used in play—often made of leather or synthetic composite materials. You might say, "He expertly dribbled the basketball," referring to the object rather than the sport.
Beyond the court and the equipment, "basketball" can even describe aspects related to the game. For example, a "basketball shoe" is designed for playing the sport, and a "basketball league" is an organized competition. You might hear about "March Madness," referring to the NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments.
From pick-up games in parks to professional championships, basketball encompasses a vibrant culture of athleticism, competition, and community. So whether you're talking about the sport, the ball, or everything surrounding it, "basketball" represents more than just a game—it's an experience!
Examples
- 1
After school
We play basketball in the park after school.
- 2
College team
She made the basketball team in her first year at college.
- 3
Watching sports
Are you watching the basketball game tonight?
- 4
Basketball court
The kids were shooting baskets on the basketball court behind the school.
- Phraseshoot baskets
try to score by throwing the ball into the basket
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Practice time
Basketball practice starts at six, so don't be late.
- 6
Sports equipment
A basketball bounced across the driveway and hit my car.
- 7
College sports
College basketball is huge in that part of the country.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- basketballnoun
Forms
- basketballspluralnoun