lob
LOB
/lɒb/
A shot that is hit high in the air with the intention of passing over an opponent who is close to the net.
A successful lob requires perfect depth; too short and it's smashed, too long and it's out.
The story behind the word. The word likely comes from the Middle English 'lobbe,' meaning something heavy or clumsy (like a 'lubber'). It originally described a slow, heavy movement before becoming a technical sports term.
Word relationships
- drop shot: A drop shot is hit very low and short, while a lob is hit very high and deep.
Commonly confused with
- chip: A chip is a short, low shot with backspin, whereas a lob is defined by its high arc.
Collocations
- defensive lob
- offensive lob
- topspin lob
Example sentences
- "The lob is a very underrated shot; it can turn a defensive position into an offensive one." Tactical advice
- "He chased down the drop shot and responded with a perfectly timed lob over the tall opponent." Match highlight
Memory hook
'Lob' it over the 'Knob' (the opponent's head). High and deep.
When not to use
In cricket, a 'lob' is an underarm bowl, which is very different from the racket sport shot.
Fun facts
- The 'topspin lob' is one of the most difficult shots to master because it must dip quickly after clearing the opponent.
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