balls

/ bɔːlz /

plural noun

1. the testicles
2. by the balls
   so as to be rendered powerless
3. nonsense; rubbish
4. courage; forcefulness

interjection

1. an exclamation of strong disagreement, contempt, annoyance, etc

Usage

Both its anatomical senses and its various extended senses nowadays have far less impact than they used to, and seem unlikely to cause offence, though some older or more conservative people may object. Interestingly, its use in the sense of courage is exactly paralleled in the Spanish term «cojones»

Example Sentences

Balls would travel fewer yards but give the receiver less time to react and prepare his return.

From BBC

John Balls, chairman of The Norfolk Titanic Society and author of two books on the tragedy, said he remembered the postcard previously coming up for sale in the 1990s.

From BBC

Hill appeared to state otherwise on the June 2 episode of the “Breaking Balls” podcast.

From Los Angeles Times

Balls, a former Labour minister, is now a regular GMB presenter; Cooper, his wife, was appointed home secretary following the general election in July.

From BBC

Balls, hoops and glittery outfits were the order of the day - here's some of the best shots from the morning...

From BBC

Related Words

• arrogance
• audacity
• boldness
• gall