Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈdrɪbəl/

Definitions

• To move (a ball, especially in basketball or soccer) by bouncing or tapping it repeatedly with the hands or feet.
• To let small amounts of liquid fall or flow in drops or a small stream.
• To speak or behave in a vague or evasive manner, especially in avoiding a direct answer.

Usage Examples

• The player skillfully dribbled the basketball past the defenders.
• She dribbled some water onto the floor while pouring from the jug.
• He tried to dribble around the tough question but couldn't avoid it forever.

Etymology

Originating in the early 19th century, the word "dribble" comes from the verb "drip," with the frequentative form "-ble" added to indicate repeated or small drops. Initially, it referred to the falling of small drops of liquid and later expanded to its current meaning in sports and evasive behavior.

Synonyms

• Trickle
• Drop
• Bounce (in sports)
• Roll (in sports)

Antonyms

• Pour
• Spill
• Flood

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the pronunciation may shift slightly, with a more clipped or drawn-out "drib" sound. This is particularly common in certain British English dialects, where the 'l' sound may be softened or omitted in informal speech.

Historical Usage

The word "dribble" has been in use since the late 18th century, initially to describe small, repetitive drops of liquid. It became widely used in sports contexts in the early 20th century, particularly with the rise of basketball and soccer. The term "dribbling" in these sports refers to the technique of controlling and maneuvering a ball by tapping it repeatedly on the ground or with the feet or hands.

Cultural Nuances

In sports like basketball, the term "dribbling" is synonymous with skill and agility. The more proficient a player is at dribbling, the more control they have over the ball. In many cultures, dribbling is seen as a hallmark of great sportsmanship. In some places, it is even viewed as an art form, with players showcasing unique styles and techniques to outsmart opponents.

More Information

The practice of dribbling a ball dates back to the early days of soccer and basketball. While both sports require ball control, dribbling was formalized in basketball in the early 1900s when players were restricted from holding onto the ball for too long. This led to the evolution of dribbling techniques as a means of keeping possession while moving the ball up the court. Today, dribbling is an essential skill in both individual and team sports around the world.