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

---

Etymology

Origin of topspin

First recorded in 1900–05; top ¹ + spin

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

topspin

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

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

Sinner even showed off some of his newfound touch when he produced a backhand topspin lob winner while on the run early in the second set.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 12, 2023

Ruud hits with a healthy dose of topspin that makes his game particularly suited to clay, where he first made waves at Grand Slams.

From Washington Post ● 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