three-pointer

noun

three-point·​er ˈthrē-ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce three-pointer (audio)
: a basketball shot or field goal from beyond the three-point line

Examples of three-pointer 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.
Sonia Citron made four three-pointers and scored 22 points for Washington, which had won three straight on the road. — Los Angeles Times, 29 Aug. 2026 The film is directed by Gotham Chopra, portrays NBA superstar Stephen Curry reaching a record 4,000 three-pointers on the basketball court, and the shooting mastery behind the Golden State Warrior team leader’s sporting greatness. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 28 Aug. 2026 Gabby Williams poured in 16 on four made three-pointers and Tiffany Hayes led the bench unit with 12 points. — Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 28 Aug. 2026 Ever wanted to shoot a three-pointer like Chicago Bulls legend Craig Hodges? — Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for three-pointer

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-pointer was in 1962

Rhymes for three-pointer

See All Rhymes for three-pointer

Browse Nearby Words

three-ply
three-pointer
three-point landing
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Three-pointer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-pointer. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

three-pointer

noun
: a basketball shot or field goal from beyond the three-point line
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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