eight ball
Definition
Noun: 1. A black pool ball bearing the number 8: In the game of pool, specifically in versions like eight-ball, this is the black ball marked with the number 8. Its unique role defines the game's objective and rules. 2. The decisive ball in certain pool games: In standard eight-ball pool, this ball must be pocketed last to win the game; pocketing it prematurely results in a loss.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- He carefully lined up his shot to sink the eight ball and win the match.
- In eight-ball pool, you must pocket all your designated balls before you can legally attempt the eight ball.
Advanced Usage
- "Behind the eight ball": This is an idiomatic expression meaning to be in a difficult, disadvantageous, or precarious position. It originates from the idea in a different pool game where being directly behind the eight ball makes a shot very difficult.
- After missing the deadline, the team was behind the eight ball on the project.
Variants and Related Words
- Eight-ball (noun, often hyphenated): The name of the pool game itself.
- Do you want to play a game of eight-ball?
Synonyms
- Black ball: A descriptive synonym referencing its color.
- Game ball: In the context of eight-ball pool, it is the ball that decides the game.
Related Idioms
- "Behind the eight ball": As detailed in Advanced Usage, this is the primary idiom associated with the term.
- With the new evidence, the prosecution found itself behind the eight ball.
Noun
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a black pool ball bearing the number 8; should be the last to go in certain pool games
