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.
Detroit took 31 free throws and made 27. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 2 Jan. 2026 Chicago connected on 25 of 34 on free throws for the game after struggling from the stripe in the first half. CBS News, 1 Jan. 2026 After not attempting a free throw for the opening 12 minutes, the Spartans made 16 straight and finished 22 of 24. Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025 Grenald later banked in a basket from beyond the arc and blocked a shot on the ensuing possession that led to two foul shots by Rice (8 for 11 free throws). Dan Albano, Oc Register, 31 Dec. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Free throw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20throw. Accessed 7 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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