1
as in sphere
a more or less round body or mass
the little rubber ball used in racquetball a ball of string
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in bullet
a usually round or cone-shaped little piece of lead made to be fired from a firearm
found a cache of musket balls while excavating the old fort
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of ball
Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2026
With one quarter to play, Westlake has turned the ball over 13 times.
—American-Statesman Staff, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026
These are the romance movies that lean into big emotions, meaningful connections, and the kind of love that lingers long after the credits roll — and will likely leave you balling your eyes out.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ball
Noun
Some the game’s preeminent ball strikers have failed to keep pace with Berger.
—Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2026
With one quarter to play, Westlake has turned the ball over 13 times.
—American-Statesman Staff, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
Verb
To test if soil is loamy, take a fistful with a gloved hand and ball it up in your palm.
—Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026
These are the romance movies that lean into big emotions, meaningful connections, and the kind of love that lingers long after the credits roll — and will likely leave you balling your eyes out.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ball
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ball
Verb
-
Paris Baguette rounds out the experience with coffee and delicate pastries.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
4 Mar. 2026
-
Jackson will appear in a supporting role, with Rose rounding out the ensemble.—
Arushi Jacob,
Variety,
3 Mar. 2026
Verb
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In Whale’s picture, the bride doesn’t talk — only screams or hisses like an irritated cat — and is brought to life 5 minutes before the credits roll.—
Leah Dolan,
CNN Money,
6 Mar. 2026
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The back portion was also rolled, but vertically, and pinned to the back of the star's head.—
Kara Nesvig,
Allure,
6 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ball. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.
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