EIGHT BALL Meaning and
Definition
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Eight ball is a term that can refer to different meanings and interpretations depending on the context. Primarily, it is commonly used to describe a black-colored ball, numbered "8," in the game of pool or billiards. In this game, the eight ball holds a significant role as it serves as the final ball to pot, and its successful sinking determines the end of the game. Alternatively, the term "eight ball" has evolved to represent a specific variation of the game known as "eight ball pool," wherein players compete to pocket all their respective balls, stripes or solids, and then pot the eight ball to secure victory.
However, beyond the game of pool, "eight ball" is also widely recognized in various other contexts. It can be associated with the illegal drug trade, specifically referencing an eighth of an ounce (3.5 grams) of illegal drugs, typically cocaine or methamphetamine. The term has further permeated pop culture and slang, becoming synonymous with a drug dealer or a drug user depending on the context. Additionally, "eight ball" is utilized in street vernacular to describe a situation that possesses an equal number of positive and negative aspects or outcomes, indicating a state of balance or equilibrium.
In summary, "eight ball" can denote the pivotal ball in a game of pool, a related variant of pool, a specific quantity of illegal drugs, a drug dealer, or a situation of equal advantages and disadvantages.
Common Misspellings for EIGHT BALL
- wight ball
- sight ball
- dight ball
- right ball
- 4ight ball
- 3ight ball
- eught ball
- ejght ball
- ekght ball
- eoght ball
- e9ght ball
- e8ght ball
- eifht ball
- eivht ball
- eibht ball
- eihht ball
- eiyht ball
- eitht ball
- eiggt ball
Etymology of EIGHT BALL
The term "eight ball" has multiple interpretations and origins, depending on the context it is used in. Here are a few possibilities:
1. Billiards/Pool: In the game of pool, the "eight ball" refers to the black ball numbered eight, which is traditionally the last ball to be pocketed. The phrase could have originated from this game.
2. Fortune-telling: In some forms of divination and fortune-telling, an "eight ball" refers to a black sphere-shaped object, often made of plastic with a white circle on it. People shake the ball and turn it over to reveal a message or answer to a question. This object came to be known as the "eight ball".
3. Narcotics/Criminal Slang: In certain illicit circles, the term "eight ball" is associated with an eighth of an ounce (3.5 grams) of drugs, particularly cocaine or crystal methamphetamine.
Idioms with the word EIGHT BALL
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behind the eight ball
The idiom "behind the eight ball" refers to being in a difficult or disadvantageous position, typically due to factors beyond one's control. It originated from the game of pool (or billiards), where the "eight ball" is the last ball to be pocketed, and being behind it means having a difficult shot to finish the game. In a wider context, it signifies being in a challenging situation with limited options or resources.
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be behind the eight ball
The idiom "be behind the eight ball" means to be at a disadvantage or in a difficult situation. It originates from the game of pool, where the eight ball is considered a challenging ball to pocket. Therefore, being "behind the eight ball" implies being in a position of disadvantage or struggling to catch up.
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eight ball
The idiom "eight ball" typically refers to being in a difficult or unfavorable situation, often with little hope of recovery or success. It may also refer to someone who is in trouble or facing challenges.
Similar spelling words for EIGHT BALL
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