dribbling
Definition
Noun: 1. The act of moving a ball forward by a series of short, controlled kicks, bounces, or pushes: This refers to the skill in sports like soccer (football) or basketball where a player advances the ball while maintaining close control, using repeated light touches.
Usage
"Dribbling" is used to describe the fundamental technique of ball control in specific sports. It is an uncountable noun when referring to the skill or action in general. * In soccer, dribbling is essential for getting past defenders. * Her dribbling skills improved after hours of practice. * The coach focused the drill on dribbling and passing.
Examples
- The player's incredible dribbling left three defenders behind.
- Effective dribbling requires good balance and coordination.
- He lost possession due to poor dribbling in a crowded midfield.
Advanced Usage
- "Close dribbling": Refers to keeping the ball very near to the feet for maximum control, often used in tight spaces.
- "Speed dribbling": Refers to dribbling the ball while running at high speed, often to exploit open space on the field or court.
Variants and Related Words
- Dribble (verb): The action from which the noun is derived.
- He can dribble past almost any opponent.
- Dribbler (noun): A player who is skilled at dribbling.
- She is known as one of the best dribblers in the league.
Synonyms
- Ball handling: A more general term, often used in basketball, encompassing dribbling, passing, and catching.
- Juggling (in soccer context): Keeping the ball in the air using feet, knees, and head; distinct from dribbling along the ground.
Related Phrases
- "Beaten by a dribble": Said of a defender who is outmaneuvered by an opponent's dribbling skill.
- The defender was beaten by a clever dribble and couldn't recover.
Noun
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the propulsion of a ball by repeated taps or kicks
