Definition

Referring to the area or direction towards the opposite end of a basketball court from where the play is currently happening.

Example

The team quickly moved downcourt to score before the time ran out.

Conversation

Did you see that last play where he sprinted downcourt?

Yeah, that was amazing! He really picked up the pace.

I think they have a good chance if they keep moving downcourt like that.

Absolutely! Fast breaks make such a difference in the game.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In sports, especially basketball, this term refers to the direction towards the far end of the court.

Example

The player sprinted downcourt to score a quick basket.

Conversation

Did you see how fast he ran downcourt after that rebound?

Yeah, he really knows how to make a break for it.

I wish I could move that quickly downcourt during games.

Root Explanation

Downcourt → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning downward or lower) and "court" (from Old French "cort", meaning an enclosed area or a place of assembly). The word "downcourt" refers to the direction toward the lower part of a court, typically in sports like basketball.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'down' ('dūn') toward the 'court' ('cort') — this helps you remember that 'downcourt' means moving toward the lower part of the court.

Visually Confused Words