double fault

American  

noun

1. (in tennis, squash, handball, etc.) two faults in succession, resulting in the loss of the point, the loss of the serve, or both.

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double fault British  

noun

1. the serving of two faults in succession, thereby losing a point

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verb

1. (intr) to serve a double fault

Etymology

Origin of double fault

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

She reset to break Pegula's hitherto dominant serve, but was broken back straight away with her fourth double fault of the contest.

From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026

It was saved, but against the odds he got the job done on Alcaraz's next service game courtesy of the top seed firing down a double fault.

From Barron's • Jan. 21, 2026

A double fault at deuce when 5-3 down gave King a third match point - and Riggs sent a volley into the net to confirm her victory.

From BBC • Dec. 27, 2025

After Sabalenka conceded another break with a double fault - losing a third service game in five - Pegula battled back from two break points down to level the match.

From BBC • Nov. 4, 2025

He instinctively picks up the “giss” of a double fault.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell