Throw Definition & Meaning

throw
noun
  1. the act of throwing (propelling something with a rapid movement of the arm and wrist); "the catcher made a good throw to second base"
  2. a single chance or instance; "he couldn't afford $50 a throw"
  3. the maximum movement available to a pivoted or reciprocating piece by a cam
  4. bedclothes consisting of a lightweight cloth covering (an afghan or bedspread) that is casually thrown over something
  5. casting an object in order to determine an outcome randomly; "he risked his fortune on a throw of the dice"
verb
  1. propel through the air; "throw a frisbee"
  2. move violently, energetically, or carelessly; "She threw herself forwards"
  3. get rid of; "he shed his image as a pushy boss"; "shed your clothes"
  4. place or put with great energy; "She threw the blanket around the child"; "thrust the money in the hands of the beggar"
  5. convey or communicate; of a smile, a look, a physical gesture; "Throw a glance"; "She gave me a dirty look"
  6. cause to go on or to be engaged or set in operation; "switch on the light"; "throw the lever"
  7. put or send forth; "She threw the flashlight beam into the corner"; "The setting sun threw long shadows"; "cast a spell"; "cast a warm light"
  8. to put into a state or activity hastily, suddenly, or carelessly; "Jane threw dinner together"; "throw the car into reverse"
  9. cause to be confused emotionally
  10. utter with force; utter vehemently; "hurl insults"; "throw accusations at someone"
  11. organize or be responsible for; "hold a reception"; "have, throw, or make a party"; "give a course"
  12. make on a potter's wheel; "she threw a beautiful teapot"
  13. cause to fall off; "The horse threw its inexperienced rider"
  14. throw (a die) out onto a flat surface; "Throw a six"
  15. be confusing or perplexing to; cause to be unable to think clearly; "These questions confuse even the experts"; "This question completely threw me"; "This question befuddled even the teacher"

"Throw" in song lyrics

See how throw is used in real songs:

  • "I got fans in Puerto Rico that love what I throw"
    12 O'Clock w/ Raekwon the Chef — Nasty Immigrants *
  • "Gold for the raps my tongue throw"
    9th Prince f/ Killah Priest — Cyanide Poetry
  • "i woulda been a catcher behind the plate but you can't throw"
    Aceyalone w/ Abstract Rude, Mikah 9 — Knownots

Usage tips for "throw"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "throw" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for throw to find words that pair well.

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