Bowls: meaning, definitions and examples

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bowls

 

[ boʊlz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

dinnerware

Bowls are round, deep dishes used for holding food or liquids. They are typically wider than they are tall and can be made from various materials including ceramic, glass, or plastic.

Synonyms

bowl, container, dish, receptacle

Examples of usage

  • She served the soup in beautiful ceramic bowls.
  • The salad was tossed in a large mixing bowl.
  • He ate his cereal from a colorful plastic bowl.
  • We placed the fruit in a wooden bowl on the table.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

In sports, 'bowls' refers to a game played on a level green where players roll biased balls, known as bowls, toward a target ball called a jack. It is a popular outdoor and indoor game in many countries.

Synonyms

bocce, curling, lawn bowls

Examples of usage

  • They play lawn bowls every Saturday at the local club.
  • He represented his country in the international bowls competition.
  • The players gathered around the green to practice their bowls.
  • Bowls is a relaxing sport suitable for all ages.

Etymology

The word 'bowl' originates from the Old English 'bolla', which means 'a rounded vessel'. The term has Indo-European roots, with connections to the Latin 'bulla', meaning 'bubble' or 'knob'. Over centuries, the design and function of bowls have evolved, expanding from basic utilitarian objects to intricate and decorative pieces reflecting artistic expression. Bowls have been integral in various cultures for serving food and have been crafted from materials like wood, clay, metal, and glass, each reflecting the technological and artistic advances of the time. The sports connotation of 'bowls' derives from its distinct play style, emphasizing precision and strategy, further showcasing the word's versatility.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,855, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.