Dribble: meaning, definitions and examples

Mostly used to describe a liquid or saliva slowly flowing in small drops. Also refers to continuously tapping a ball in sports like basketball or soccer.

• The baby began to dribble as he fell asleep.
• He managed to dribble the ball past three defenders.

Used when something hits a surface and quickly goes back up, like a rubber ball. It can also be used metaphorically about coming back from a difficult situation.

• The ball bounced high after hitting the ground.
• She bounced back from her mistake with confidence.

Describes something moving slowly and smoothly through the air or water, or a change in an unplanned or gradual way.

• The boat began to drift away from the shore.
• She let her thoughts drift as she watched the clouds.

Usually used to describe a small mistake or a shaky movement, often in sports like football when failing to catch or handle the ball properly.

• The goalkeeper made a bobble and the ball went into the net.
• She tried to catch the ball but bobbled it.

Typically used when a liquid flows slowly in small drops, often in a controlled manner. Commonly used when referring to actions such as babies or sports.

• The baby started to dribble milk from his bottle.
• The basketball player dribbled the ball expertly down the court.

Often used to describe saliva running from the mouth, usually involuntarily. Frequently associated with babies, pets, or people in a deeply relaxed state. Can also describe a strong desire for something.

• The dog began to drool at the sight of food.
• The baby was drooling because he was teething.
• She couldn't help but drool over the new luxury car.

Describes a small, slow, continuous flow of a liquid. Often used in the context of water or other thin fluids. Can be used metaphorically to describe a slow influx of something.

• Rainwater began to trickle down the roof.
• A small trickle of blood ran from the cut.
• Information about the new policy started to trickle in.

Refers to forcefully ejecting saliva or other substances from the mouth. It can be considered rude or impolite. Often used in expressions of anger, disapproval, or contempt.

• He spit on the ground in disgust.
• She angrily spit out the bad-tasting medicine.
• The venomous snake can spit poison at its prey.

Often used to describe a slow, small flow of liquid, usually unintentionally, such as saliva or a drink spilling slowly.

• The baby began to dribble milk down his chin.
• Sweat started to dribble down his forehead.

Typically refers to saliva flowing from the mouth, usually unintentionally. Often associated with babies, animals, or someone in a deep sleep.

• The dog was so excited to see food that it began to drool.
• The baby drooled on the blanket while sleeping.

Describes a small, steady flow of liquid, not necessarily unintentionally. Can be used more broadly than just for bodily fluids.

• A trickle of rainwater ran down the window pane.
• The stream had dried up to just a trickle of water during the drought.

Refers to forcefully expelling saliva or other substances from the mouth. This word often has a rude or negative connotation.

• He had to spit the gum out before entering the office.
• Being disrespectful, the man spit on the ground in front of them.