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

Alima Dembélé's two free throws at the start gave Mali (1-2) its only lead against Germany as the host made sure of progress from a group that had been wide open with all teams 1-1 before their final games. — CBS News, 8 Sep. 2026

The Americans shot 29 percent overall and a paltry eight percent on 3-pointers while missing eight free throws. — Chantel Jennings, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026

The 19-year-old had her own impressive debut in the World Cup, finishing with 13 points and hitting nine of her 10 free throws. — ABC News, 4 Sep. 2026

The Dream failed to score on their ensuing possession and the Sky hit two free throws after an intentional foul. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for free throw

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backflow
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau

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