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

The topspin and speed wowed fans at the Caja Magica, even drawing a few comparisons to Rafael Nadal - the recently retired 'King of Clay' who won a record 14 French Open titles.

From BBC • May 5, 2025

Though the blast had a low trajectory with topspin that limited the distance it carried, the ball still sailed 450 feet, crashing into a pocket of empty seats deep in the right-field stands.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2024

From the start, Tan had Williams guessing and stretching, mixing often-exquisite drop shots with forays to the net; towering lobs with counterpunched backhand passing shots; sideswiping forehand slices with looped topspin.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 28, 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