-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
free throw
noun
: an unhindered shot in basketball made from behind a set line and awarded because of a foul by an opponent
Examples of free throw in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Warriors shot just 32.4% from 23 and missed nine free throws.
—Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 4 Nov. 2024
On the year, the 6-foot-11 vet is averaging 8.5 points on 43.2 percent field goal shooting and 57.9 percent free throw shooting, 11.8 rebounds, 1.6 steals, 0.6 blocks and 0.6 dimes across 28.4 minutes per game.
—David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024
But Ivica Zubac missed two free throws with 1:20 left, Amir Cofey missed a three-pointer and Powell had his shot blocked.
—Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 31 Oct. 2024
Mathurin took nine free throws in that quarter — his ability to get to the charity stripe has always been nearly elite.
—Tony East, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for free throw
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1891, in the meaning defined above
Articles Related to free throw
Dictionary Entries Near free throw
Cite this Entry
“Free throw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20throw. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
free throw
noun
: a basketball shot worth one point that must be made from behind a specific line and is given because of a foul by an opponent
More from Merriam-Webster on free throw
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about free throw
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share