free throw

noun

: an unhindered shot in basketball made from behind a set line and awarded because of a foul by an opponent

Examples of free throw in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Making his second consecutive start, the rookie had a dunk, two free throws and a three-pointer early on, to go along with three rebounds and a block, as Miami built that early 18-3 lead. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 24 Jan. 2025 As the Kings worked up a big fourth-quarter comeback to get within five, Jokic made four free throws in the final minute to secure the victory. David Caraccio, Sacramento Bee, 24 Jan. 2025 That meant three free throws and the ball for Cleveland. Zach Harper, The Athletic, 23 Jan. 2025 The late Lakers star even made two free throws while standing on one leg at the end of the game, becoming one of many great moments in his storied career. Natasha Dye, People.com, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for free throw 

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of free throw was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near free throw

Cite this Entry

“Free throw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20throw. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

free throw

noun
: a basketball shot worth one point that must be made from behind a specific line and is given because of a foul by an opponent

More from Merriam-Webster on free throw

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!