Tennis

/ˈtɛnɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A sport played between two players (singles) or two teams of two players each (doubles), in which a ball is hit back and forth over a net on a rectangular court using rackets.
She plays tennis every Saturday with her friends at the local club.
The game of tennis, including all its matches and tournaments.
He has always dreamed of winning a major tournament in tennis.
The equipment used to play the sport, including rackets and balls.
He bought a new tennis racket to improve his game.

Etymology

The word 'tennis' comes from the French word 'tenez', which means ‘hold’ or ‘take’, as the player would say this to serve the ball.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tennis court
A specially marked area where tennis is played.
serve and volley
A style of play where the player serves and quickly moves to the net to hit the return.
grand slam
The four major professional tennis tournaments that take place each year.

Related Words

racket
A sports implement used to strike the ball.
match
A competitive game or contest in tennis.
set
A component of scoring in tennis.

Slang Meanings

Ace
He served an ace to win the game.
Love
The score was 30-love in the first game.