ball

UK: bɔːl | US: bɔːl

Definition

  1. n. a spherical or rounded object used in games or sports

  2. n. a formal social gathering for dancing

  3. v. to form something into a ball shape

Structure
ball <sphere, round object>
Etymology

The word "ball" traces back to Old Norse bǫllr and Old English beallu, both meaning "round object" or "sphere." Its Proto-Germanic root balluz likely imitated the shape through sound symbolism (a rounded vocalic quality). The sense of a "dance party" emerged in the 17th century, metaphorically referencing the whirling motion of dancers resembling a rolling ball.

Examples

  1. The children played catch with a rubber ball.

  2. She attended the royal ball wearing a silk gown.

  3. He balled the clay into a perfect sphere.

  4. The kitten chased a ball of yarn across the floor.

  5. Tennis players must hit the ball over the net.