kickball

American  

[kik-bawl] / ˈkɪkˌbɔl /

noun

1. a children's game, similar to baseball, in which a large inflated ball, as a soccer ball, is kicked instead of being batted.

---

Etymology

Origin of kickball

First recorded in 1970–75; kick + ball ¹

Example Sentences

The Times is hosting the event with the Next Fun Thing, which runs L.A. social events from speed dating to kickball tournaments.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

Kaczanowski has also done away with kickball, which became a showcase for those who were playing in a local league.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 5, 2025

At a game of kickball, “Peanut vendor claps twice. Mid-celebration a boy in suede shoes steals the kickball, and a chase ensues.”

From Seattle Times • Nov. 30, 2023

The rest of the world either didn’t participate or spent its social currency on Facebook or Instagram or, I dunno, kickball for grown-ups.

From Slate • Oct. 30, 2023

At recess, Sherm ran into the middle of Bridge’s kickball game, looking high over his shoulder for a flying football.

From "Goodbye Stranger" by Rebecca Stead