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
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.
Rutgers shot 21% from the floor in the opening half (6 of 28) including 2 of 13 on 3s and was 2 of 6 on free throws. Arkansas Online, 9 Jan. 2026 Why can Andrews shoot free throws so well but struggle from the floor? Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 9 Jan. 2026 Porter entered the fourth with 26 points and was still the only Net in double figures until Thomas got there on a free throw with 40 seconds left. C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 8 Jan. 2026 Ogulei hit a 3-pointer to open the fourth before Wallin converted a layup and a pair of free throws to build a 30-26 lead. Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for free throw

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of free throw was in 1891

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Free throw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20throw. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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