topspin

noun

top·​spin ˈtäp-ˌspin How to pronounce topspin (audio)
: a rotary motion imparted to a ball that causes it to rotate forward in the direction it is traveling

Examples of topspin 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.
The use of heavy topspin also added margin to her more attacking shots, hitting 12 winners to Vekic’s three despite the more overt aggression coming from the Croatian’s racket. Matthew Futterman, The Athletic, 3 Aug. 2024 The crowd-pleasing rally of slice and dice, topspin and dropshots are a mere cameo in a shooting gallery. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 The pace and space era of tennis where lighter rackets can generate more topspin and powerful groundstrokes has a physical payoff. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024 Schrader knew ultimate topspin could only be achieved if the actor playing Fife as a young man also had a hook. Stephen Rodrick, Variety, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for topspin 

Word History

Etymology

top entry 1

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topspin was in 1888

Dictionary Entries Near topspin

Cite this Entry

“Topspin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topspin. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

topspin

noun
top·​spin -ˌspin How to pronounce topspin (audio)
: a forward spinning motion of a ball
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!