Lobber - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sports term

A lobber is a player in certain sports, like tennis or basketball, who frequently uses lob shots to strike the ball or throw it over opponents. In tennis, a lob is typically a high shot that goes over the net and lands deep in the opponent's court. Lobbers often adopt this technique to counter aggressive players or to create openings in the opponent's defense. Mastering the lob can be particularly effective in mixed doubles or against players who are positioned close to the net.

Synonyms

high shooter, lobbing player, thrower.

Examples of usage

The lobber surprised his opponent with a well-timed shot.
In basketball, the lobber set up a beautiful alley-oop play.
She is known as a lobber in tennis matches, always keeping opponents guessing.

Interesting Facts

Sports Terminology

In tennis, lobbers use high shots to get the ball over their opponents and often catch them off guard.
The term is commonly used in volleyball to describe players who send the ball in an arc over to the other side.
Lobbing can be a strategic move to force opponents out of position, showcasing skill in timing and placement.

Cultural References

In video games, lobbers refer to characters or weapons that launch projectiles in an arc, often seen in action and strategic games.
In popular cartoons and films, lobbers are often depicted humorously, emphasizing their clumsy or awkward throwing style.
Lobbing has been portrayed in sports movies as a critical moment of suspense, highlighting the unpredictability of the game.

Physics

The physics of lobbing involves understanding projectile motion, which can be calculated using angles and velocity.
High lob throws can create challenging trajectories, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate where the ball will land.
The angle of a lobbed throw affects its height and distance, making the study of angles essential for athletes.

Origin of 'lobber'

Main points about word origin

The term 'lob' comes from the Old French word 'lobber', which means to throw or toss.
Historically, it was used to refer to a type of throw that lifted a ball high into the air, emphasizing its arc.
The word has evolved from its informal uses to become common language in various sports.

The term 'lobber' derives from the verb 'lob', which originates from the mid-16th century. The verb 'lob' meant to throw something in a high arc, coming from a dialectal English word 'lobbe', which meant to throw or toss. Initially, the use of 'lob' was not sport-specific and could apply to any high throw. As sports like tennis and basketball evolved, the term came to describe a particular style of play that involves high, arcing shots aimed at surprising or outmaneuvering an opponent. By the late 20th century, the term 'lobber' began to be used more commonly in the context of these sports, emphasizing the role of strategy and technique in gameplay.

Lobber Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations