Ball: meaning, definitions and examples
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ball
[ bɔːl ]
sports
A spherical object used in various sports and games, typically made of leather or rubber and filled with air.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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ball |
This can also refer to a formal social event with dancing.
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sphere |
Commonly used in scientific or academic contexts to describe a perfectly round 3D object. This term is more technical.
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orb |
Used more formally or poetically, often for celestial bodies like stars or planets, or to describe something magical or mystical.
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spheroid |
Often used in geometry and science to describe an object that is almost a sphere but not quite perfect. It's a more specialized term.
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Examples of usage
- The basketball player dribbled the ball down the court.
- The soccer ball flew into the back of the net.
- She hit the tennis ball with great precision.
- The baseball pitcher threw the ball with incredible speed.
- The golf ball landed just inches from the hole.
dance
A formal social event featuring dancing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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ball |
A formal and elegant party typically involving dancing. Often associated with higher social classes or historical events.
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dance |
A social gathering where music is played and people dance. This can range from casual school events to more formal occasions.
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gala |
A large and formal event, often for a charitable cause, that may involve a banquet, entertainment, and dancing. It is usually more elegant and high-profile.
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soiree |
An evening party, typically more intimate and sophisticated, often hosted at someone's home or a smaller venue.
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Examples of usage
- She looked elegant in her gown at the ball.
- They waltzed gracefully across the ballroom.
- The masquerade ball was a night to remember.
- The charity ball raised funds for a good cause.
informal
A very enjoyable time or experience.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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ball |
Commonly used in sports or play context to refer to a round object used in games.
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blast |
Often used informally to describe a very enjoyable and exciting experience. It can be used for parties, events, or any fun activity.
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fun |
Used to describe activities or experiences that are enjoyable or entertaining in a general sense.
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great time |
A general expression for enjoying oneself a lot during an activity or event. It's often used in informal conversations.
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Examples of usage
- We had a ball at the concert last night.
- The vacation was a ball from start to finish.
- The party was a real ball with great music and food.
informal
To have a good time; to enjoy oneself.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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ball |
Use this word to describe a round object used in various games and sports, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis.
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have fun |
Use this phrase to describe being entertained or having a good time. It is commonly used in casual or informal situations.
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enjoy |
Use this word to express taking pleasure or delight in something. It is often used when talking about activities, hobbies, or experiences.
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party |
Use this word to describe a social gathering where people come together to celebrate, socialize, or enjoy themselves. It can range from casual get-togethers to more elaborate celebrations.
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Examples of usage
- We always ball when we go out together.
- Let's ball at the beach this weekend!
- They balled until the early hours of the morning.
Translations
Translations of the word "ball" in other languages:
🇵🇹 bola
🇮🇳 गेंद (genda)
🇩🇪 Ball
🇮🇩 bola
🇺🇦 м'яч
🇵🇱 piłka
🇯🇵 ボール (bōru)
🇫🇷 balle
🇪🇸 pelota
🇹🇷 top
🇰🇷 공 (gong)
🇸🇦 كرة (kura)
🇨🇿 míč
🇸🇰 lopta
🇨🇳 球 (qiú)
🇸🇮 žoga
🇮🇸 bolti
🇰🇿 доп (dop)
🇬🇪 ბურთი (burti)
🇦🇿 top
🇲🇽 pelota
Etymology
The word 'ball' originated from the Old English word 'beall,' which meant a round object. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, from sports to social events. The concept of playing with a ball dates back to ancient civilizations, where balls were made from materials like leather, wood, or even animal bladders. Over time, the word 'ball' has evolved to represent not only a physical object but also a symbol of enjoyment and recreation.
See also: ballad, ballet, ballgame, ballot, ballpark, ballroom, balls.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #2,504, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.
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- 2501 conclusions
- 2502 increasingly
- 2503 shaped
- 2504 ball
- 2505 unusual
- 2506 ad
- 2507 coverage
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