water polo

American  

noun

1. an aquatic game played by two teams of seven swimmers each, the object being to score goals by pushing, carrying, or passing an inflated ball and tossing it into the opponent's goal, defended by a goalkeeper.

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water polo British  

noun

1. a game played in water by two teams of seven swimmers in which each side tries to throw or propel an inflated ball into the opponents' goal

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Etymology

Origin of water polo

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

water polo

The law firm laid out a series of potential red flags about Moore, and outlined problems in Michigan’s athletic department in other sports, including previously unreported issues with a water polo coach.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 30, 2026

The addition of the guest play-callers, Close and women’s water polo coach Adam Wright, led to a variety of trick plays throughout the game.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 2, 2026

Scottish Swimming, the national governing body for swimming, diving, open water, artistic swimming and water polo in Scotland, said it was "disappointed" by South Ayrshire Council's decision.

From BBC ● Mar. 18, 2026

His support for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Games went beyond the water polo teams.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 27, 2026

“I have friends on the water polo team. I’ve heard stories. They’d have to pay me to drink that water.”

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman