Air-ball is a term used to describe a basketball shot that completely misses the rim and the backboard. It is a common occurrence in basketball games, and it can be quite embarrassing for the player who makes the shot. In this article, we will discuss the definition and meaning of air-ball, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
An air-ball is a shot in basketball that misses the rim and the backboard entirely, resulting in the ball hitting nothing but air. It is also known as an “air shot” or a “brick.” The term “air-ball” can also be used as a verb, as in “he air-balled the shot.”
Origin
The origin of the term “air-ball” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. It is a term that has been used in basketball for many years, and it has become a part of the sport’s lexicon.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of air-ball is consistent across different dictionaries. Merriam-Webster defines it as “a basketball shot that misses the basket entirely.” Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a shot in basketball that misses the rim and backboard entirely, usually by a considerable margin.”
Associations
Air-ball is associated with failure and embarrassment. When a player air-balls a shot, it is often met with groans and jeers from the crowd. It can also be a source of frustration for the player and their team.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of air-ball include “brick,” “miss,” “clank,” and “whiff.”
Antonyms
The antonyms of air-ball are shots that successfully make it into the basket. These shots are often referred to as “swishes” or “net.”
The same root words
There are no root words associated with air-ball.
Example Sentences
- “He air-balled the shot from the three-point line.”
- “The crowd groaned as the player’s air-ball missed the basket entirely.”
- “The player was embarrassed after air-balling the layup in front of the home crowd.”