ricochet

[rik-uh-shey, rik-uh-shey, rik-uh-shet]

noun

1. the motion of an object or a projectile in rebounding or deflecting from a surface one or more times as a result of a glancing blow.

verb (used without object)

ricocheted, ricocheting , ricochetted, ricochetting .

1. to move by rebounding or deflecting from a surface, as a projectile.

   Synonyms: glance, deflect, rebound

ricochet

/ ˈrɪkəˌʃeɪ, ˈrɪkəˌʃɛt /

verb

1. (intr) (esp of a bullet) to rebound from a surface or surfaces, usually with a characteristic whining or zipping sound

noun

1. the motion or sound of a rebounding object, esp a bullet

2. an object, esp a bullet, that ricochets

Word History and Origins

Origin of ricochet¹

First recorded in 1760–70; from French; further origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of ricochet¹

C18: from French, of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Now she heard the sharp clack-clack of billiard cues, then the muffled thud as the ball hit the felted rim of the table and ricocheted into the pocket.

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Their motion resembles a pinball ricocheting between stationary posts.

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Video of the encounter quickly ricocheted across the internet.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The massive agriculture deal ricocheted through international markets, pressuring U.S. soybean prices and providing a bump to Argentina’s currency.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"We had taken out the magazine. We did not realise there was a bullet left in the chamber. A shot fired into the air, the bullet ricocheted and hit my brother right in the face."

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• bounce back 
• deflect