The word "eight balls" is often misspelled as "eight ballz" due to the influence of internet and social media language. The correct spelling is represented by the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /eɪt bɔːlz/. The first sound, /eɪ/, represents a long "a" sound, the second sound /t/ represents a "t" sound and the third sound /b/ represents a "b" sound. Similarly, /ɔː/ represents a long "o" sound and the final sound /lz/ represents "l" and "z" sounds together.
The term "eight balls" is typically used in two distinct contexts, with different meanings attached to each.
In the context of billiards or pool, "eight balls" refers to the black ball, which is numbered 8 in the standard set of billiard balls. The objective of the game is to legally pocket the other seven balls of one's assigned group (stripes or solids) and then legally pocket the black "eight ball" to win the game.
Alternatively, "eight balls" may also refer to a street name for a type of recreational drug. It pertains specifically to balls of methamphetamine or cocaine, typically weighing approximately 3.5 grams. This slang term originates from the specific quantity of the drug packaged in a small plastic ball, often resembling an eight ball used in pool. It is important to note that the unlawful possession, distribution, or use of such controlled substances is illegal in most jurisdictions.
The use of the term "eight balls" outside of these contexts is relatively uncommon. However, it is worth mentioning that in some colloquial expressions and idioms, the term "eight balls" may occasionally be used metaphorically to describe a state of overwhelming challenge or obstacle, or as a playful reference to the aforementioned game of billiards.
The term "eight balls" is commonly associated with different meanings, depending on the context. Here are two common usages:
1. Billiards: In the game of pool (or billiards), the "eight ball" refers to the black ball numbered eight. It is one of the solid balls and has great significance in the gameplay. The term itself, "eight ball", is a straightforward description originating from the rules and setup of the game.
2. Narcotics: In the context of drugs, "eight ball" is a slang term that typically refers to an eighth of an ounce (approximately 3.5 grams) of a controlled substance, particularly cocaine. The etymology of this usage is less clear. One theory suggests that the term originated from the pool/billiards reference, where "eight ball" represents the high-stakes nature of the drug transaction, similar to the final ball in a game of pool that determines the winner.