Definition

An excessive amount of spin applied to a projectile, causing it to behave in a specific way during its flight.

Example

The player used overspin to make the ball bounce unpredictably on the court.

Conversation

Did you see that last shot in the game?

Yeah, I noticed how much overspin he put on the ball.

It really changed the way it bounced off the floor!

Exactly! That kind of spin can really throw off the defender.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overspin → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively or too much) and "spin" (from Old English "spinnan", meaning to twist or turn). The word "overspin" means to spin excessively or too much, often leading to a loss of control or balance.

Memory Tip

Think of spinning something 'too much' ('over-') — that's why overspin means to spin excessively.

Visually Confused Words