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.
The Liberty, held to their season-low point total in a 79-60 loss to Golden State on Friday, turned it around against Chicago, making 11 3-pointers and 20 of 22 free throws. — ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026 The Dream failed to score on their ensuing possession and the Sky hit two free throws after an intentional foul. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2026 The 6-7 wing hit 53% of his shots, including 41% of his 3s and 78% of his free throws. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 24 Aug. 2026 Atlanta then pushed the lead back to nine behind a free throw from Howard and a 3-pointer from Naz Hillmon. — Christopher Harris, CBS News, 23 Aug. 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

See All Rhymes for free throw

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 2 Sep. 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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