Definition

A type of poker game where the player with the lowest hand wins, or a specific type of drink served in a short glass with ice or water.

Example

In lowball poker, the goal is to have the lowest hand possible to win the pot.

Conversation

Have you ever played lowball poker before?

No, I haven't, but it sounds interesting!

It's fun because the lowest hand wins, which is so different from regular poker.

I might give it a try; it could be a nice change of pace.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To offer a price or estimate that is lower than what is reasonable or expected, often to mislead someone about the true cost.

Example

The contractor decided to lowball his bid to win the project, knowing he would raise the price later.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the deal they offered on that car?

Yeah, but I think they might lowball you just to get you in the door.

That makes sense; I don't want to get tricked into a bad deal.

Root Explanation

Lowball → The word is formed from "low" (from Old English "lōw", meaning not high) and "ball" (from Middle English "bal", meaning a spherical object). The term originally referred to offering a price that is significantly lower than the expected or market value, akin to throwing a low ball in a game.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not high' ('low') and a 'spherical object' ('ball') to remember that 'lowball' means to offer a price that is much lower than expected.

Visually Confused Words