Dribble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
dribble
[หdrษชbษl ]
Definitions
basketball
To advance a ball by bouncing it with one hand as you move around the court.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dribble |
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.
|
| bounce |
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.
|
| drift |
Describes something moving slowly and smoothly through the air or water, or a change in an unplanned or gradual way.
|
| bobble |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- He dribbled past the defenders for an easy layup.
- She dribbled the ball up the court before passing to her teammate.
liquid
To let saliva or liquid fall from the mouth in small amounts.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dribble |
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.
|
| drool |
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.
|
| trickle |
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.
|
| spit |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- The baby dribbled milk down his chin.
- She dribbled some water onto the plant.
liquid
A small amount of saliva or liquid that falls from the mouth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dribble |
Often used to describe a slow, small flow of liquid, usually unintentionally, such as saliva or a drink spilling slowly.
|
| drool |
Typically refers to saliva flowing from the mouth, usually unintentionally. Often associated with babies, animals, or someone in a deep sleep.
|
| trickle |
Describes a small, steady flow of liquid, not necessarily unintentionally. Can be used more broadly than just for bodily fluids.
|
| spit |
Refers to forcefully expelling saliva or other substances from the mouth. This word often has a rude or negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- There was a dribble of coffee on his shirt.
- She wiped the dribble from the baby's chin.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Sports
- In basketball, dribbling is essential for advancing the ball and avoiding defenders.
- Soccer players also dribble but use their feet to control and maneuver the ball around opponents.
- The skill of dribbling can involve a variety of techniques, like crossovers and spin moves in basketball.
Science
- When a liquid dribbles, it often relates to surface tension, causing droplets to form.
- Different liquids have varying viscosities, affecting how they dribble from a surface.
- In physics, the concept of dribbling can be observed in how children learn to control force and movement.
Pop Culture
- Many famous basketball players are known for their signature dribbling styles, making it a critical aspect of their performance.
- In movies, you often see characters dribbling basketballs as a way to communicate their skills or mood.
- Dribbling is not just in sports; itโs also used to describe quirky action in cartoons where characters spill things playfully.
Child Development
- Dribbling helps children develop coordination and fine motor skills through playful activities.
- Sports involvement teaches teamwork, as players learn to dribble together during games.
- Fun games like 'dribble and freeze' encourage physical activity while teaching children to control their movements.
Origin of 'dribble'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'dribblen', which means 'to fall in drops'.
- It was first used to describe the act of letting liquid flow slowly and later adapted for sports.
- Its roots are traceable to the Old Norse word 'drip' which also relates to falling drops.
The word 'dribble' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Middle Dutch word 'dribbelen' meaning 'to walk unsteadily'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the actions of bouncing a ball in sports and letting liquid fall from the mouth. The word has been used in various contexts, reflecting its versatile nature.