backspin

noun

back·​spin ˈbak-ˌspin 

: a backward rotary motion of a ball

Examples of backspin in a Sentence

put backspin on the ball

Recent Examples on the Web

Firstly, the planetary backspin is in Cancer, a zodiac sign that is begrudgingly stepping out of its comfort zone, forcing us all out of our safety nets. — Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 15 July 2026

As many as four balls can be in play in multi-ball mode, and the cameras can track up to five players concurrently from fingertips to legs, analyzing shot trajectory, backspins, court positions and scoring. — Shirl Leigh july 13, New Atlas, 13 July 2026

This is why baseball players try to create backspin to hit home runs. — Rhett Allain, Wired News, 13 June 2026

However, the ball had some backspin after landing, and rolled harmlessly across the goal line. — Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

backspin

noun

back·​spin -ˌspin 

: a backward spinning motion of a ball