Foul Line - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

A 'foul line' in sports marks the boundary beyond which a ball is considered 'foul,' meaning out of play. This line dictates what is in bounds or out of bounds. It is most commonly used in baseball and basketball. In baseball, a ball landing outside the foul line is not in play. In basketball, stepping on or over the foul line while shooting a free throw has consequences. It ensures fair play by defining clear boundaries.

Etymology

'Foul' comes from Old English 'ful,' meaning dirty or offensive, but in sports, it means contrary to the rules. 'Line' comes from the Latin 'linea', signifying a thread or mark. So 'foul line' literally means the line marking where play becomes contrary to the rules. The term indicates unacceptable play beyond that boundary.

Related Words

Examples

• "The ball curved just outside the foul line."
• "He stepped over the foul line while shooting the free throw."
• "The umpire called the ball foul."
• "The foul line was clearly marked on the field."

Encouragement

Use 'foul line' in a sports context to describe game boundaries. It is useful for explaining the rules. It demonstrates a clear understanding of fair play.

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