Definition

A game similar to baseball that is played on a smaller field with a larger, softer ball, typically pitched underhand.

Example

She plays softball every Saturday with her friends.

Conversation

Did you see the softball game last night?

Yeah, it was so exciting!

I can't believe how well they played with that softball.

I know, right? They really nailed their strategy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Softball → It is formed from "soft" (from Old English "softe", meaning not hard or firm) and "ball" (from Old English "beall", meaning a spherical object). The word "softball" refers to a type of ball that is softer than a traditional baseball, used in a sport similar to baseball.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not hard' ('soft') and a 'spherical object' ('ball') — that's why softball is a sport played with a softer ball.

Visually Confused Words