Bounce Meaning
Bounce Definition & Usage
To move up or away from a surface after hitting it, typically with a light, rapid motion.
Examples
- "The ball bounced off the wall and landed in the corner."
- "She watched the basketball bounce across the court before she grabbed it."
- "The child laughed as the rubber duck bounced in the bathtub."
- "The car’s tires bounced over the potholes, making the ride uncomfortable."
- "The dog jumped and tried to catch the bouncing ball."
To move or cause to move in an energetic or lively manner, often implying a back-and-forth or lively action.
Examples
- "The kids bounced around in excitement when they saw the presents."
- "She bounced on the couch, eager to tell everyone the good news."
- "The music made everyone bounce to the rhythm."
- "He was bouncing on his toes as he waited for the results."
- "After the long meeting, he bounced out of the room, ready to start the next task."
To cause a payment, typically a check or transaction, to be rejected or not processed due to insufficient funds or other issues.
Examples
- "My check bounced because I didn't have enough money in my account."
- "The company bounced our payment because of a technical error."
- "If the payment bounces, we will have to charge a penalty fee."
- "His credit card bounced when he tried to pay for the dinner."
- "I received a notification that my rent check bounced this month."
The action or sound of something bouncing, especially a ball or similar object.
Examples
- "The bounce of the ball echoed through the gym as the players warmed up."
- "I love the bounce of the soccer ball when it hits the ground just right."
- "He mastered the perfect bounce when dribbling the basketball."
- "The bounce of the ball was perfect for a quick pass."
- "She aimed for the perfect bounce on her serve."
Cultural Context
The word 'bounce' has its origins in Middle English, derived from Old French 'bouncier', meaning 'to rebound'. It has been used for centuries to describe the motion of objects moving after hitting a surface. In modern times, its usage has expanded beyond physical movements to describe energetic actions, financial transactions, and even moods.
The Bouncing Journey
Story
The Bouncing Journey
It was a bright, crisp morning when Sam stood in the middle of the gym, basketball in hand, looking at the hoop. He dribbled once, then twice, watching the ball bounce steadily on the floor. With a quick flick of his wrist, he sent it soaring through the air, the ball bouncing off the rim and falling just short of making the basket. 'Almost there,' he thought, smiling at his own progress. Later, outside, Sam met his friend Mark. 'What’s up?' Sam asked, bouncing lightly on his feet. Mark grinned. 'I was just about to grab lunch, but first, I’ve got to go to the bank. My rent check bounced,' he explained, looking a little frustrated. Sam laughed. 'You’ve got to make sure you’ve got the funds before you send it off.' 'Yeah, I learned that the hard way,' Mark said, bouncing a little as he walked beside Sam. As they continued their conversation, they stopped by a cafe, where Sam noticed the lively music playing inside. The beat was infectious, making everyone in the cafe bounce to the rhythm. Mark tapped his foot, a wide grin spreading across his face. 'This is the kind of energy I need,' he said. By the end of the day, Sam had bounced between basketball drills, helping Mark with his bounced check, and vibing with the rhythm of the cafe. It was a day full of movement, energy, and life—a perfect reflection of the word 'bounce'.
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