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topspin

American  
[top-spin] / ˈtɒpˌspɪn /

noun

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


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of topspin

First recorded in 1900–05; top 1 + spin

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

She sought to improve her topspin forehand, her serve and her return, all of which paid off during a victory over reigning U.S.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 7, 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