bounce

word

/ˈbaʊns/
bowns
/bˈaʊns/
bowns

Definition

To bounce is to hit a surface and spring back up or away. It can also mean to move in a lively up-and-down way, or to recover quickly after a problem.

Usage & Nuances

Common with balls: 'bounce a ball' and 'the ball bounced'. Also used for people or movement: 'bounce with excitement'. In informal English, 'bounce back' means recover quickly, and 'the email bounced' means it could not be delivered.

Example Sentences

The ball bounced off the wall.

basic

The baby bounced happily on the bed.

basic

She can bounce a tennis ball ten times.

basic

He had a tough week, but he always bounces back fast.

natural

My email bounced, so I sent the file another way.

natural

The kids were bouncing with excitement before the trip.

natural