bowling

American  

[boh-ling] / ˈboʊ lɪŋ /

noun

1. any of several games in which players standing at one end of an alley or green roll balls at standing objects or toward a mark at the other end, especially a game in which a heavy ball is rolled from one end of a wooden alley at wooden pins set up at the opposite end.

2. the game of bowls; lawn bowling.

3. an act or instance of playing or participating in any such game.

   Bowling is a pleasant way to exercise.

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bowling British  

/ ˈbəʊlɪŋ /

noun

1. any of various games in which a heavy ball is rolled down a special alley, usually made of wood, at a group of wooden pins, esp the games of tenpin bowling (tenpins) and skittles (ninepins)

2. the game of bowls

3. cricket the act of delivering the ball to the batsman

4. (modifier) of or relating to bowls or bowling

   a bowling team

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Etymology

Origin of bowling

First recorded in 1525–35; bowl ² + -ing ¹

Explanation

If you love bowling you're a fan of rolling a ball down a long lane and hoping it will knock down the pins at the end. The ball you roll is called a bowling ball. Bowling classically involves very heavy balls that are rolled down the polished wood of a lane, with open gutters at each side, toward the ten pins arranged at the end. Other versions of bowling have smaller balls, differently shaped pins, and different numbers of pins — but the goal is always to knock as many of them over as possible. The game was originally known as "playing at bowls."

Example Sentences

Bracewell, who signed for Essex for the final three Championship matches of the season, opened the bowling on day one, claiming two wickets as Somerset moved to 339-6.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Another spot that would make for an enjoyable birthday celebration is Highland Park Bowl, the oldest functioning bowling alley in L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

I’ve celebrated my birthday at a go-kart racing track and a bowling alley.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

Some nights, his friends would go bowling or go to parties.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

“We’re going bowling!” said Tiffany in a bright voice, as if going bowling meant flying to the moon.

From Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles