topspin

noun
top·​spin | \ ˈtäp-ˌspin How to pronounce topspin (audio) \

Definition of topspin

: a rotary motion imparted to a ball that causes it to rotate forward in the direction it is traveling

Examples of topspin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Now, in order to produce extreme topspin and power, some players have their palms tucked so far under that their wrists almost seem contorted. Louisa Thomas, The New Yorker, "Consider the Forehand," 4 Sep. 2019 The Winchester High number one doesn’t commit a single double fault in the set and stays patient at the baseline, hitting wide angles and switching between topspin and flat shots to throw off her opponent, letting her make the mistakes. Matt Case, BostonGlobe.com, "Winchester’s Thompson takes place among tennis contenders," 11 May 2018 Ben Affleck In the same interview, Damon gave updates on his friend Ben Affleck, putting some positive topspin on a stint in rehab that could look bad for the actor. Kenzie Bryant, Vanities, "Is Matt Damon Suddenly Hollywood’s Greatest Publicist?," 30 Mar. 2017 Chirico’s weapons have been maximized by the conditions in Madrid, where the altitude amplifies her topspin. Ben Rothenberg, New York Times, "Sign Up for the Sports Newsletter," 5 May 2016 Their plain-spokenness gives Mr. Jackson’s dialogue a lot of topspin. Dwight Garner, New York Times, "By Greg Jackson," 25 Feb. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'topspin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of topspin

1902, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for topspin

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More Definitions for topspin

topspin

noun

English Language Learners Definition of topspin

: a forward spinning motion of a ball