How Do You Spell SCREWBALL?

Pronunciation: [skɹˈuːbɔːl] (IPA)

Screwball is spelled with the letters S-C-R-E-W-B-A-L-L. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /skruːbɔːl/. The first syllable, "screw," is pronounced with a long "oo" sound as in "shoe." The second syllable, "ball," is pronounced with a long "aw" sound as in "saw." The word "screwball" is frequently used to describe someone or something which is strange or eccentric. Its origin dates back to the early 1930s in baseball, referring to a pitch with an unpredictable trajectory.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Plural
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SCREWBALL Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "screwball" is a noun commonly used to describe a person or thing that exhibits strange, eccentric, or unconventional behavior. This expression is often employed to label individuals who have an unpredictable or offbeat personality, characterized by an unusual sense of humor or peculiar mannerisms. A screwball can be someone who frequently engages in unconventional actions, possesses quirky beliefs, or has a tendency to act in an unexpected and whimsical way. It is important to note that the term is subjective and can be used both endearingly and critically depending on the context in which it is applied.

    "Screwball" can also be used as an adjective to describe something that is erratic, absurd, or zany. In this sense, it is often used to characterize humor, comedy, or movies that possess a highly unconventional or exaggerated style, often assimilating slapstick comedy, exaggerated physicality, and rapid dialogue. Screwball comedies from the 1930s and 1940s, for instance, typically feature rapid-fire banter, improbable situations, and hilarious misunderstandings.

    Overall, the term "screwball" refers to a person or thing that deviates from societal norms in a peculiar or unpredictable manner, introducing an element of eccentricity or wackiness into their behavior or characteristics.

Common Misspellings for SCREWBALL

Etymology of SCREWBALL

The word "screwball" originated in the early 20th century, primarily in the United States. Its etymology is a combination of two separate words: "screw" and "ball".

1. "Screw": The term "screw" has various meanings, but in this context, it refers to something being twisted or turned. It comes from the Old French word "escroue", meaning "nut" or "screw", which later entered the English vocabulary in the 15th century.

2. "Ball": In this case, "ball" signifies a person behaving in an unconventional, erratic, or eccentric manner. It likely comes from the idea of a ball being thrown and bouncing erratically, suggesting unusual behavior.

Similar spelling words for SCREWBALL

Plural form of SCREWBALL is SCREWBALLS

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Correct spelling for screwball
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