backspin

[bak-spin]

noun

1. reverse rotation of a ball causing it to bounce or roll backward or stop short.

backspin

/ ˈbækˌspɪn /

noun

1. sport a backward spinning motion imparted to a ball to reduce its speed at impact, as by hitting it with a downward or undercutting motion Compare topspin

Word History and Origins

Origin of backspin¹

First recorded in 1905–10; back ² + spin

Example Sentences

“I used to be able to just throw a ball perfectly every time, and not even think about it. Just perfect backspin. Just roll out of bed and do that,” Kershaw said.

From Los Angeles Times

The ball clanged off the front rim, appearing short — until backspin carried it to the back iron for a second bounce.

From Los Angeles Times

You’re going from a 100-mph groundball hit to you on the dirt to center field, where balls are slicing, they have backspin or top spin.

From Los Angeles Times

“If he hit that with backspin,” third baseman Max Muncy said, “it’s out of the stadium for sure.”

From Los Angeles Times

But things are finally starting to take a turn — or a backspin, as a pickler might say.

From Los Angeles Times