hammer throw
Definition
Noun: 1. A track and field event: An athletic competition in which an athlete spins and throws a heavy metal ball (the hammer) attached to a wire and a handle for distance. 2. The act or instance of performing this throw: The specific action of hurling the hammer in competition.
Usage
The term "hammer throw" refers specifically to the athletic event itself. It is used to describe the competition, the discipline within track and field, or a single attempt within that event. - The hammer throw requires immense strength and precise technique. - Her best effort in the hammer throw was over 70 meters. - The hammer throw and discus throw are both field events.
Examples
- As the event:
- The hammer throw will be the final field event of the day.
- He has trained for years to excel in the hammer throw.
- Referring to an attempt:
- Her winning hammer throw landed just inside the sector line.
- The athlete fouled on his first hammer throw.
Advanced Usage
- "to have a good hammer throw": to execute a successful and long throw in competition.
- She needs to have a good hammer throw in the final round to win the gold medal.
Variants and Related Words
- Hammer (n): The implement itself—the metal ball, wire, and grip—used in the hammer throw.
- The men's hammer weighs 7.26 kg (16 lbs).
- Hammer thrower (n): An athlete who competes in the hammer throw.
- The hammer thrower began his spin in the circle.
Synonyms
- Weight throw: A more general term that can include similar events, though technically distinct. (Note: "Hammer throw" is the precise name for this specific event.)
Related Phrases
- Throw the hammer: The verbal phrase describing the action.
- His ability to throw the hammer with such power is remarkable.
- Hammer throw circle: The concrete ring from which the athlete makes the throw.
- The competitor must not step out of the hammer throw circle before the implement lands.
Noun
-
an athletic competition in which a heavy metal ball that is attached to a flexible wire is hurled as far as possible
