free throw
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of free throw
First recorded in 1890–95
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A free throw from Mikal Bridges and Anunoby either side of Dylan Harper's two missed attempts for the Spurs sealed a memorable victory for the Knicks.
From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026
Knicks coach Mike Brown, hardly a confrontationalist, wondered out loud about San Antonio’s 24-to-8 free throw advantage in the second half.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026
Brunson snatched up the ball, drew a foul and made a free throw.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026
Mitchell scored, was fouled by Smart and made the free throw for a three-point play and a 95-92 Thunder lead.
From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026
The Beast turned around and glared, and the Colonel almost got kicked out after the first free throw, but he smiled at the ref and said, “Sorry!”
From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
