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tie-break

British  
/ ˈtaɪˌbreɪkə /

noun

  1. tennis a method of deciding quickly the result of a set drawn at six-all, usually involving the playing of one deciding game for the best of twelve points in which the service changes after odd-numbered points

  2. any contest or game played to decide a winner when contestants have tied scores

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Although frustratingly denied four set points on his opponent's serve, Cobolli wrested control of a must-win tie-break to force the decider - where he once again delivered.

From BBC

Two days after he edged an epic 32-point tie-break to confirm Italy's place in the final, Cobolli once again starred as he battled back from a set and a break down to defeat Jaume Munar in three sets.

From BBC

Flavio Cobolli said sealing Italy's place in the Davis Cup final was "one of the best days of my life" after he saved seven match points to win a dramatic 32-point tie-break against Belgium's Zizou Bergs.

From BBC

Following the thrilling conclusion, which stands as the sixth-longest tie-break in the Davis Cup's 125-year history, two-time defending champions Italy will face Spain or Germany in Sunday's final.

From BBC

The 29-year-old responded admirably, withstanding three set points to level at 5-5 and maintaining that momentum to wrest control of the tie-break and avoid a decider.

From BBC