shuttlecock

1 of 2

noun

shut·​tle·​cock ˈshə-tᵊl-ˌkäk 

: a lightweight conical object with a rounded often rubber-covered nose that is used in badminton

Illustration of shuttlecock

shuttlecock

2 of 2

verb

shuttlecocked; shuttlecocking; shuttlecocks

transitive verb

: to send or toss to and fro : bandy

Examples of shuttlecock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

When a shuttlecock is positioned between the wheels, friction between the rotating surfaces accelerates it and sends it over the net. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026

On this particular evening, a duo volleyed a badminton shuttlecock back and forth, and women took photos in front of colorful flowerbeds. — Betsy Joles, NPR, 22 Apr. 2026

In addition to unusual shuttlecock pink and white blooms, its outstanding characteristic is a spreading umbrella form that quickly creates shade below its canopy. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 16 Apr. 2026

Instead of the shuttlecocks, visitors would see large soccer balls on the lawn in honor of Kansas City being one 16 cities to host the global soccer tournament. — Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1522, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1687, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shuttlecock

• aftershock
• antiknock
• arawak
• hollyhock
• interlock
• manioc
• tomahawk
• weathercock
• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk

Kids Definition

shuttlecock

noun

shut·​tle·​cock

ˈshət-ᵊl-ˌkäk

: a small and very light cone-shaped object that is used in playing badminton