Definition

A game played on a machine where a player uses a plunger to launch a ball down a sloped surface filled with obstacles and targets, often using flippers to keep the ball in play.

Example

We spent the afternoon playing pinball at the arcade.

Conversation

Have you ever played pinball at the arcade?

Yeah, I used to love it when I was a kid!

I think it's so much fun trying to keep the ball in play.

Definitely! I always try to beat my high score.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To move suddenly or quickly from one position to another, often in a bouncing or erratic manner.

Example

The ball began to pinball around the room after hitting the wall.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he pinball between the players on the field?

Yeah, it was impressive! He really knows how to navigate.

I wish I could pinball through obstacles like that.

Root Explanation

Pinball → The word is formed from "pin" (from Old English "pinn", meaning a small cylindrical object) and "ball" (from Old English "beall", meaning a spherical object). Pinball refers to a game involving a small cylindrical object (the pin) and a spherical object (the ball) used in play.

Memory Tip

Think of a small cylindrical object ('pin') and a spherical object ('ball') coming together in a game — that's what pinball is all about.

Visually Confused Words