topspin

noun

top·​spin ˈtäp-ˌspin How to pronounce topspin (audio)
: a rotary motion imparted to a ball that causes it to rotate forward in the direction it is traveling

Examples of topspin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The crowd-pleasing rally of slice and dice, topspin and dropshots are a mere cameo in a shooting gallery. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 The pace and space era of tennis where lighter rackets can generate more topspin and powerful groundstrokes has a physical payoff. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024 Schrader knew ultimate topspin could only be achieved if the actor playing Fife as a young man also had a hook. Stephen Rodrick, Variety, 9 May 2024 Zheng is athletic and unwaveringly competitive, with a strong, if inconsistent, serve and a penetrating topspin forehand. Gerald Marzorati, The New Yorker, 27 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for topspin 

Word History

Etymology

top entry 1

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topspin was in 1888

Dictionary Entries Near topspin

Cite this Entry

“Topspin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topspin. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

topspin

noun
top·​spin -ˌspin How to pronounce topspin (audio)
: a forward spinning motion of a ball
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!