Lobbing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lobbing

[ˈlɒbɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sports action

Lobbing refers to a technique in various sports, such as tennis or basketball, where a player throws or hits the ball in an arcing motion. This tactic is often used to bypass opponents or obstacles and can create an advantage in gameplay. Effective lobbing requires a good understanding of distance and timing, as well as practice to execute it with precision.

Synonyms

arc, pitch, throw.

Examples of usage

  • He scored with a perfect lob over the goalkeeper.
  • The player executed a lob to surprise his opponent.
  • She lobs the ball softly over the net.
  • The basketball player lobbed the shot from three-point range.

Translations

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Origin of 'lobbing'

The term 'lobbing' originates from the word 'lob', which dates back to the early 16th century. In English, 'lob' was derived from the Middle English 'lobbe', meaning to throw something lightly or to drop it from a height. The term was originally used in the context of throwing a ball. Over time, 'lobbing' has evolved to describe specific techniques in various sports. The sports community adopted the term more broadly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, associating it with specific gameplay strategies that involve a high trajectory throw intended to gain tactical advantage. This has allowed the practice to be incorporated into various sports, becoming a critical skill set for athletes.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,008, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.