double dribble

noun

1. an infraction, resulting in loss of possession of the ball, occurring either when a player uses both hands simultaneously when dribbling or when a player interrupts a dribble by holding the ball momentarily in one or both hands.

verb (used without object)

, double dribbled, double dribbling.

1. to commit a double dribble.

verb (used with object)

1. to commit a double dribble with (the ball).

Word History and Origins

Origin of double dribble¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The team’s leading scorer dribbled the ball out of bounds and turned the ball over on a double dribble early in the first quarter.

From Los Angeles Times

A flurry of turnovers — including a double dribble — sent the Wildecats home to ruminate about next season.

From Washington Post

But Caldwell-Pope hesitated as he took a step beyond the arc and then tried to get back behind it — double dribble.

From Washington Post

But Siakam was called for a double dribble with about 10 seconds left.

From Fox News

It is the rough equivalent of a double dribble.

From New York Times