How Do You Spell SPITBALL?

Pronunciation: [spˈɪtbɔːl] (IPA)

The word "spitball" is spelled with the IPA transcription /ˈspɪt.bɔl/. The first syllable, "spit," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "t" consonant. The second syllable, "ball," is pronounced with a long "o" sound and a soft "l" consonant. This word refers to a small ball of paper that has been moistened with saliva and thrown as a practical joke or weapon. Its unique spelling comes from the combination of two common words, "spit" and "ball."

SPITBALL Meaning and Definition

1. Spitball is a noun that refers to a small wad or ball made by moistening a tiny piece of paper with saliva and then rolling or shaping it. This term is commonly associated with a mischievous prank or an act of playful mischief, especially among school-aged children. The act of creating and flicking these homemade saliva-soaked paper projectiles is often seen as a form of practical joke or irritation. Spitballs are typically propelled using a straw or by simply blowing air upon them, causing them to fly through the air with unpredictable and often unruly trajectories.

   The term "spitball" can also be used metaphorically to describe a disrespectful or derogatory remark made towards someone or an impromptu suggestion or idea that lacks careful thought or consideration. In such contexts, the term connotes a disrespectful or demeaning action, highlighting the lack of seriousness or regard for others.

   Although the creation and use of spitballs may be seen as harmless pranks in certain social settings, they are generally discouraged and considered inappropriate behavior, particularly in educational or professional environments. The act of creating and launching spitballs can disrupt classroom or work settings, and may be met with disciplinary consequences.

   Overall, spitball is a term used to describe both mischievous childish behavior and the act of propelling small moistened paper projectiles, typically executed with humorous or playful intent.

Common Misspellings for SPITBALL

• suitbale
• spitfull
• spirtuall
• spitual
• spitral
• spittal
• spitballl
• stikball
• sticball
• spitboxx
• spitboll
• Spitaly
• spindall
• Spittbalz
• skicball
• epiball
• Spikbail

Etymology of SPITBALL

The word "spitball" can be traced back to the late 19th century and has its roots in American slang. The term is derived from the action of using saliva to moisten a small piece of paper, usually torn from a notebook or other paper source, and then wadding it up into a small ball. This ball of damp paper would then be thrown or "spit" at someone or something, typically for amusement or mischief. The word "spitball" itself is a combination of "spit", referring to saliva, and "ball", denoting the small paper projectile. Its etymology is quite straightforward, reflecting the nature of the action itself.

Plural form of SPITBALL is SPITBALLS