Backhand is a term used in sports, particularly in tennis, to describe a type of stroke where the racket is swung across the body with the back of the hand facing the opponent. The backhand stroke is an essential part of the game and is used to return balls hit to the player’s left side. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of backhand.
Definitions
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, backhand is defined as “a stroke in which the back of the hand is used to hit a ball or other object.” In tennis, the backhand stroke is used to return balls hit to the player’s left side.
Origin
The term backhand is believed to have originated in the 19th century and was first used in reference to the game of tennis. The word is a combination of “back” and “hand,” referring to the way the racket is held during the stroke.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The Oxford English Dictionary defines backhand as “a stroke made with the back of the hand facing the ball, especially in tennis.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “a stroke in which the back of the hand faces the ball, used especially in tennis.”
Associations
In addition to its use in tennis, the term backhand is also used in other sports such as table tennis, badminton, and squash. It can also be used figuratively to describe a type of criticism or insult delivered indirectly or subtly.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of backhand include reverse, backhanded, and backhander.
Antonyms
The antonyms of backhand include forehand, direct, and straightforward.
The same root words
The root words of backhand are “back” and “hand.” Other words that share these roots include backstroke, backhanded, and handball.
Example Sentences
- She has a strong backhand and can return even the toughest shots.
- His backhand was weak, and he struggled to keep up with his opponent.
- The critic’s review was a backhanded compliment, praising the actor while also subtly criticizing their performance.