skittle

American  

[skit-l] / ˈskɪt l /

noun

Chiefly British.

1. (used with a singular verb) skittles, ninepins in which a wooden ball or disk is used to knock down the pins.

2. one of the pins used in this game.

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skittle British  

/ ˈskɪtəl /

noun

1. a wooden or plastic pin, typically widest just above the base

2. Also called (esp US): ninepins.  (plural; functioning as singular) a bowling game in which players knock over as many skittles as possible by rolling a wooden ball at them

3. informal (often used with a negative) an easy time; amusement

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Etymology

Origin of skittle

1625–35; perhaps < Scandinavian; compare Old Norse skutill shuttle, arrow; Danish skyttel shuttle

Example Sentences

The 35-year-old was a one-man wrecking ball against England at Perth Stadium, taking 7-58 to skittle them for 172.

From Barron's • Nov. 21, 2025

Opener Shan Masood orchestrated Multan’s healthy total of 183-5 with 73 off 42 balls before leg-spinner Imran Tahir’s haul of 3-7 helped skittle out Quetta for 73 in 12.1 overs.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 16, 2021

In a text Mr. Lloyd said Mr. Callaghan and others “boycotted” the White Horse after the skittle alley skirmish.

From New York Times • Nov. 28, 2020

The club used in the club throw event is the shape of a skittle.

From BBC • Sep. 4, 2016

The sides of the skittle ground were decorated by the hanging of table covers, curtains, pieces of carpet, sheets, or anything else that would cover over the walls. 

From Rambling Recollections of Chelsea by an old inhabitant by Ellenor, J. B.