personal foul

noun

Sports.

1. a foul called in certain games, as basketball or football, for illegal body contact or rough, unsportsmanlike play.

Word History and Origins

Origin of personal foul¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

There were numerous 15-yard personal foul penalties for taunting, late hits, grabbing the face mask and a horse collar.

From Los Angeles Times

St. Paul made mistakes — the Swordsmen had four personal fouls, including three in Cathedral territory.

From Los Angeles Times

“He knows that we have his back,” said Bozeman, who was called for a personal foul and described Shepherd’s play as “unacceptable.”

From Los Angeles Times

The NFL cited James’ history of multiple personal fouls in recent seasons.

From Los Angeles Times

He led the league in personal fouls at one point as well.

From Seattle Times