Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Hoops Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏀
Add to dictionary

hoops

[huːps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

basketball

A ring through which a basketball must be successfully thrown in order to score points. It is typically made of metal and attached to a backboard.

Synonyms

basketball hoop, ring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
hoops

General term for the sport of basketball, often used in informal contexts to refer to the entire sport or the act of playing it.

  • We're playing hoops at the gym tonight.
  • He's been into hoops since high school.
basketball hoop

Specific term for the physical object used in the sport of basketball, including the rim, net, and backboard.

  • The basketball hoop in our driveway needs repair.
  • He dunked the ball through the basketball hoop.
ring

Refers to the circular, metallic rim of a basketball hoop. It can also mean a circular band worn as jewelry, so context is important.

  • The ball bounced off the ring and out.
  • She received a beautiful ring for her birthday.

Examples of usage

  • The player made a perfect shot through the hoops.
  • He practiced shooting hoops every day after school.
Context #2 | Noun

obstacle

A series of hoops arranged in a line or pattern that a person must jump through or around in certain sports or activities.

Synonyms

jumping through hoops, obstacle course.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
hoops

Used to describe circular, ring-like objects or in sports to refer to a basketball game.

  • The kids enjoyed playing with the colorful hoops in the playground
  • He spent his Saturday night shooting hoops with friends
obstacle course

Used for a physical test or training involving a series of obstacles to navigate. It can also describe a challenging situation in life that requires navigating multiple difficulties.

  • The military recruits had to complete a tough obstacle course as part of their training
  • Life can sometimes feel like an obstacle course with new challenges every day
jumping through hoops

Used to describe a situation where someone has to go through a lot of complicated or difficult procedures to achieve something, often used in a negative or frustrating context.

  • Getting a visa requires jumping through hoops with all the paperwork and interviews
  • They made him jump through hoops just to get a simple refund

Examples of usage

  • The agility course included jumping through hoops.
  • She had to navigate through the hoops to reach the finish line.
Context #3 | Noun

earrings

A type of earring that is circular in shape, resembling a hoop.

Synonyms

circle earrings, hoop earrings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
hoops

Refers casually to large circular earrings, often used in an informal or colloquial setting.

  • She loves wearing her gold hoops with every outfit.
  • Those hoops are a trendy accessory these days.
hoop earrings

Specifically describes a type of earrings that are circular or semi-circular in shape. Can be used in various contexts, both formal and informal.

  • She received a beautiful pair of silver hoop earrings as a gift.
  • Hoop earrings are a classic accessory in any jewelry collection.
circle earrings

Refers to earrings that are circular in shape in a more descriptive and general sense. Often used in a neutral or formal context.

  • For a minimalist look, she opted for simple circle earrings.
  • Circle earrings are versatile and go well with any style.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a pair of gold hoops to the party.
  • The hoops dangled elegantly from her ears.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Basketball hoops have been around since the late 19th century, originally made of peach baskets.
  • Professional basketball tournaments are high-stakes events that draw massive crowds, showcasing incredible athletic skills.

Culture

  • In Asian cultures, traditional dance often uses hoops adorned with colorful decorations.
  • Hooping, a form of exercise with a hula hoop, has gained popularity for its fun and energetic approach to fitness.

Psychology

  • Engaging in play with hoops can enhance hand-eye coordination and boost confidence in physical abilities.
  • Participating in group hoops activities can promote social skills and teamwork among children.

Art

  • Hoops have inspired various artists and entertainers, often symbolizing unity and connection in their works.
  • The use of hoops in performance arts, such as circus acts, showcases creativity and can captivate audiences.

Origin of 'hoops'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hoop' comes from the Old English 'hopa,' meaning a ring or circle.
  • Historically, hoops were made from wood or metal and used for various games before modern sports emerged.

The word 'hoops' originated from Old English 'hōp' meaning a ring or a circular band. Over time, it evolved to refer to various types of circular objects, including the basketball hoop and hoop earrings. The use of 'hoops' in the context of obstacles likely stems from the idea of jumping through or around circular structures. Today, 'hoops' is commonly associated with basketball and agility courses.

See also: hoop.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,174, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.