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1a round object used for throwing, hitting, or kicking in games and sports a golf/tennis/soccer ball Bounce the ball and try to hit it over the net.
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- 2a round object or an object that has been formed into a round shape The sun was a huge ball of fire low on the horizon. a ball of string Some animals roll themselves into a ball for protection.
- 3a kick, hit, or throw of the ball in some sports He hit a foul ball.
- 4(in baseball) a throw by the pitcher that is outside the strike zone (= the area between the batter's upper arms and knees)
- 5ball of the foot/hand the part underneath the big toe or the thumb
- 6a large formal party with dancing Idioms
- 1to play with a ball Chris was in the park playing ball with the kids.
- 2(informal) to be willing to work with other people in a helpful way, especially so that someone can get what they want We contacted the airline about a refund but they wouldn't play ball.
a problem that prevents you from doing what you would like to do
it is your/someone's responsibility to take action next They've offered me the job, so the ball's in my court now.
a person who is full of energy and enthusiasm
to take responsibility for getting something done My coworker was sick, so I had to carry the ball.
to make a mistake and spoil something that you are responsible for Let's not drop the ball on this.
to make something start happening; to make sure that something continues to happen
to enjoy yourself a lot
to be capable of doing a job very well; to be intelligent
to be aware of and understand what is happening and able to react quickly The new publicity manager is really on the ball.
to develop an idea or plan that already exists It's up to the private sector to take the ball and run with it. The mainstream media will pick up the ball and run with it. a challenge to other colleges to pick up the ball and run with it
to stop giving your attention to what is most important
the whole thing; everything I panicked, I cried—the whole ball of wax.
Check pronunciation: ball