topspin

American  

[top-spin] / ˈtɒpˌspɪn /

noun

1. a spinning motion imparted to a ball that causes it to rotate forward.

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topspin British  

/ ˈtɒpˌspɪn /

noun

1. sport spin imparted to make a ball bounce or travel exceptionally far, high, or quickly, as by hitting it with a sharp forward and upward stroke Compare backspin

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Etymology

Origin of topspin

First recorded in 1900–05; top ¹ + spin

Example Sentences

Sabalenka, who has crushed topspin forehands harder than the top men at this tournament, was on her way.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 6, 2025

While her topspin forehand still had some magic, she didn’t look match fit and the hard-serving Contreras Gomez, 24, only needed consistency to gain the upper hand.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 20, 2022

Ruud, using his excellent topspin forehand, then broke Alcaraz’s serve for a 4-2 lead.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2022

The years of pro experience seemed at first to favour Martinez, who used deep, punchy shots and heavy topspin to clinch the first set 6-4.

From BBC • Aug. 25, 2022

From the outset of Saturday’s final, Swiatek flaunted the variety of her strokes, constructing points with a medley of topspin wallops, deft slices and crisp volleys.

From Washington Post • Jun. 4, 2022