netball

American  

[net-bawl] / ˈnɛtˌbɔl /

noun

1. Tennis. a ball, on a return shot, that hits the top of the net and drops on the other side of the court, thus remaining in play.

2. British. a game similar to basketball, played with a soccer ball, usually outdoors.

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netball British  

/ ˈnɛtˌbɔːl /

noun

1. a team game similar to basketball, played mainly by women

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Other Word Forms

• netballer noun

Etymology

Origin of netball

First recorded in 1895–1900; net ¹ + ball ¹

Example Sentences

Townsend said a running club and netball club were in the pipeline, but to extend their reach and ensure accessibility for all ages the group has now introduced yoga.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

But Ssentamu loves the way it combines elements of netball, football, volleyball, and rugby -- and also the equality between men and women, which is an official requirement for every team.

From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026

That marks a shift in five years, with football rising by 2% and netball static.

From BBC • Oct. 2, 2025

They are at the vanguard of the sport's professional era, the elite of the three million people who play netball in England at least once a year.

From BBC • Oct. 2, 2025

“And captain of my netball team. And I could arm wrestle kids older than me and beat them.”

From "Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun" by Hena Khan