Definition

A team sport played with an oval ball, where players can run with the ball, kick it, and score points by touching it down in the opponent's area or kicking it through goalposts.

Example

He plays rugby every Saturday with his friends.

Conversation

Have you ever watched a rugby match on TV?

Yeah, I love the energy of the players on the field!

I find rugby so exciting, especially when they score a try.

Me too! It’s such a thrilling sport.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rugby originates from the name of Rugby School in Warwickshire, England, where the game was first played in the early 19th century. The name 'Rugby' itself is derived from Old English 'rugga' (meaning a tuft of grass) and 'by' (meaning a settlement or farm). Thus, Rugby refers to the settlement associated with the grassy area where the sport was developed.

Memory Tip

Imagine a grassy 'settlement' ('by') where the sport of rugby was first played, helping you remember that 'rugby' is named after the place it originated.

Visually Confused Words