Basketball

Definition

Basketball is a noun that refers to a team sport in which two teams of five players each try to score points by throwing a ball through the opponent’s hoop or basket. It also refers to the ball used in the game.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbæskɪtˌbɔl/
• Respelling: BAS-kit-bawl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɑːskɪtˌbɔːl/
• Respelling: BAH-skit-bawl

Etymology

The word "basketball" was coined in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, who invented the sport in the United States. The term combines "basket," referring to the goal used to score points, and "ball," the object players throw to score. The sport quickly gained popularity, especially in North America.

Derivatives

• Basketballer (noun)
• Basketball court (noun)
• Basketball hoop (noun)
• Basketball game (noun)
• Basketball team (noun)

Synonyms

• Hoops
• Roundball
• Ball game

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "basketball" is commonly used to describe the sport, its equipment, and events. For example, "He plays basketball every weekend," or "The school has a new basketball court."

Related Terms

• Dribbling: The act of bouncing the ball while moving.
• Rebound: Gaining possession of the ball after a missed shot.
• Layup: A type of shot taken close to the basket.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A team sport played with a ball and hoop: Refers to the game in which teams compete to score points by shooting a ball into the opposing team’s basket.
  • Example: "She joined the school basketball team."
• The ball used in the sport of basketball: Refers to the round, usually orange ball used in the game.
  • Example: "He bought a new basketball for practice."