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

“After the free throw and as the ball entered the frontcourt, they were both correctly assessed technical fouls for their unsportsmanlike comments directed towards one another.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 22, 2026

Teammates cheered, jumped and raised their fists from the Lakers bench when Doncic made his final free throw to finish off his 60-point night.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

But like so many of his athletic exploits, somehow a perfect missed free throw just comes naturally to the Lakers guard.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

He made his first free throw with 5.2 seconds remaining.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 14, 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