balling

[ baw-lin ]

verb

1. Slang. living a lavish, flashy, or extravagant lifestyle, especially spending freely while partying:

   It’s not fair that he’s out ballin’ in the club while she’s home taking care of their kids.

2. Informal. present participle of ball ¹, in the sense of playing basketball:

   Y’all remember those summers we spent ballin on the court shooting threes?

3. Slang: Vulgar. present participle of ball ¹, in the sense of having sexual intercourse.

adjective

, Slang.

1. lavish, flashy, or extravagant:

   He really doesn’t have the kind of money to keep up this balling lifestyle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of balling¹

First recorded in 1660–70; ball ²( def ) + -ing ¹( def ); 1990–95 balling fordef 2, ball ¹( def ) + -ing ¹( def ); 1960–65 balling fordef 3, ball ¹( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

“On paper, he has every disadvantage at tackle. But you watch the film, and it’s like, he’s always balling out.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Ethan’s balling right now,” Foster said of his presumed starting quarterback.

From Los Angeles Times

“He’s balling, man. He’s showing some crazy stuff. He’s really developed,” offensive lineman Sam Cosmi said.

From Washington Times

“To see them out there balling and scoring, it’s just like it’s my little brother out there scoring. So we’re just happy to see them execute and living out their dream.”

From Seattle Times

Standing beside Horsford, she was smiling broadly and, at one point, balling her fists with the sort of excitement exuded after one’s favorite football team scores a touchdown.

From Los Angeles Times