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.
But Antetokounmpo popped up quick, taking the ensuing two free throws and remaining in the game. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 Banchero made his way to the free throw line early and often converting seven of his first 10 shots there to reach 11 points by the half. — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 In a wild finish, Jackie Young missed the second of two free throws with six seconds left to give Las Vegas one last chance, then Chelsea Gray grabbed the rebound and drove under the basket for a layup attempt. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 2026 The quarter ended with Howard called for a questionable shooting foul on Sabrina Ionescu, who sold the phantom contact before missing both free throws. — Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 8 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for free throw

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Browse Nearby Words

free thought
free throw
free throw lane
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Cite this Entry

“Free throw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20throw. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about free throw

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