drop the ball

phrase

Definition of drop the ballnext
as in trip
to make a mistake I'm so sorry I dropped the ball and forgot to buy the wine for the dinner party.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of drop the ball New York running back Tyrone Tracy took a handoff and dropped the ball untouched. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 With men on first and third and nobody out that inning, second baseman Jackson Holliday fielded a tough grounder and threw to second, but shortstop Gunnar Henderson dropped the ball for an error and everyone was safe. — CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026 Raleigh dropped the ball, and Bauers dived back to the plate. — ABC News, 18 Aug. 2026 Following up Saturday’s outing, Garrett Nussmeier saw undrafted rookie wide receiver Jacob De Jesus break free downfield and dropped the ball in for a score. — Kansas City Star, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for drop the ball

Browse Nearby Words

drops the ball
drop the ball
droshkies
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Cite this Entry

“Drop the ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/drop%20the%20ball. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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