free throw

American  

noun

Basketball.

1. foul shot.

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free throw British  

noun

1. basketball an unimpeded shot at the basket from the free-throw line given for a technical fault (one free shot) or a foul (two free shots)

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Etymology

Origin of free throw

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

All Duke had to do, with 10 seconds left, was safely inbound the ball and hit their free throws to advance to Indianapolis.

From The Wall Street Journal

For example, a bet on whether a particular set of free throws will go in or not or whether a certain player on the court may get a certain number of fouls.

From Barron's

Luke Kennard was fouled shooting a three with 2:30 left and made all three free throws to tie the score.

From Los Angeles Times

“They were both warned to cease their comments directed towards one another between the two free throws,” Davis said.

From Los Angeles Times

Skyy Clark, who lost part of a tooth earlier in the second half while battling for a loose ball, then made one of two free throws in the final seconds to secure the win.

From Los Angeles Times