three-point line

noun

ˈthrē-ˈpȯint- How to pronounce three-point line (audio)
: a line on a basketball court forming an arc at a set distance (such as 22 feet) from the basket beyond which a field goal counts for three points

Examples of three-point line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The former Duke star was 5 for 8 from the three-point line, drilling a couple from Steph Curry range. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 22 Oct. 2026 For Ball not to get whistled while standing well beyond the three-point line is a bit of a surprise, even by NBA standards. — Mark Harris Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Oct. 2026 With the Heat’s offense often spacing all five players around the three-point line, Antetokounmpo will have plenty of room to operate as one of the most powerful drivers in the NBA. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026 They’re applied at varying levels on a Z-axis, creating a series of ripples engineered for aerodynamics and also representing Clark’s prowess from behind the three-point line. — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for three-point line

Word History

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-point line was in 1977

Rhymes for three-point line

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Browse Nearby Words

three-point landing
three-point line
three-point perspective
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Three-point line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-point%20line. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

three-point line

noun
: a line on a basketball court forming an arc at a set distance (as 22 feet) from the basket beyond which a field goal counts for three points
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