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

Inspired by the treatment of an injury she suffered days before trialling for the Wales netball under-17s team, Meg landed what her parents called her "dream" place at Bournemouth University, where she studied physiotherapy.

From BBC

The netball dress is an iconic sporting uniform - and it's not about to fall out of fashion any time soon.

From BBC

And he describes his children's favourite activities – it is football and hockey for George, netball for Charlotte, while both Charlotte and Louis like trampolining.

From BBC

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

I arrive at a sports hall as a group of 11 and 12-year-old girls play netball and laughter is ringing out.

From BBC