throw down

verb

threw down; thrown down; throwing down; throws down

transitive verb

1

: to cause to fall : overthrow

2

: precipitate

3

: to cast off : discard

4

: to make (a slam dunk) with exceptional force

Synonyms of throw down

• throw
• drop

Examples of throw down in a Sentence

throw down the gun, and put your hands up

Recent Examples on the Web

James threw down a baseline reverse dunk off Doncic’s pinpoint pass from beyond midcourt during the quarter. —Dan Arritt, Oc Register, 29 Dec. 2025

The hosts shot 58 percent from the floor, threw down half a dozen dunks and received another standout performance from senior swingman Cade Tyson, who delivered 24 points, seven rebounds and five assists. —Tris Wykes, Twin Cities, 22 Dec. 2025

Two years ago, Sukeban exploded onto the scene with fighters in latex, corsets and bomber jackets, throwing down with full makeup, wigs and acrylic nail art. —Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 18 Dec. 2025

James threw down a dunk in the first half that had a packed house roaring in what could be his final game in Philadelphia. —CBS News, 8 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for throw down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown