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 ailing Butler came flying in from the baseline corner for the rebound of the night and hit two free throws on the other end, and the Warriors firmed up a commanding 3-1 lead in this first-round series over the Rockets. —Anthony Slater, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025

Then, with just 10 seconds remaining, a successful coach’s challenge from Chris Finch led to the officials overturning an out-of-bounds call on Edwards to a foul on James and free throws for Edwards. —Matias Grez, CNN Money, 28 Apr. 2025

Instead, the Timberwolves stole James’ ensuing inbounds pass and Anthony Edwards made two free throws with 10.9 seconds left for a 116-113 lead. —Khobi Price, Oc Register, 28 Apr. 2025

After shooting the ensuing free throws, Morant went to the locker room with Memphis up 67-40. —Adam Zagoria, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025

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